This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
Published on June 29, 2019, by AFP
France-based Bongani Zungu scored the only goal as South Africa edged out Namibia 1-0 in a lacklustre Africa Cup of Nations Group D match.
The win keeps South Africa's hopes of making the second round alive, but they will need to secure at least a point against leaders Morocco in their next match to book a last-16 place.
Already qualified Morocco have six points, while the Ivory Coast and South Africa are tied on three points each. Namibia remains pointless after two solitary-goal losses.
South Africa made four changes to their team, including the shock demotion of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, who was outstanding in their previous match against the Ivory Coast.
Despite having plenty of possession, South Africa lacked creativity in the final third of the pitch and their frustration led to many hopeful, long-range shots.
Namibia, with four South Africa-based players in the line-up, held their own and did not resemble a side 41 places lower in the world rankings.
South Africa's Percy Tau had a chance to break the deadlock, but a weak shot was comfortably saved by Loydt Kazapua.
Deon Hotto came close to putting Namibia ahead, but his shot was cleared off the line by Buhle Mkhwanazi.
Almost immediately, South Africa forced a corner and Zungu rose unchallenged in the middle of the six-yard box to nod the former champions into the lead.
