This archive report was first published on 7 July 2019.
On July 7, 2019, South Africa pulled off a stunning upset, defeating hosts Egypt 1-0 in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and securing their spot in the quarter-finals.
Thembinkosi Lorch scored the winning goal for South Africa in the 85th minute, capitalizing on a counter-attack after Egypt threw players forward in a desperate bid to score.
Despite the efforts of Egyptian striker Mahmoud Trezeguet, who had the hosts' best chance but fired at the goalkeeper, South Africa maintained their composure and secured the win.
With this victory, South Africa will return to Cairo to face Nigeria in the last eight on Wednesday, while Egypt follows holders Cameroon out of the tournament.
Before the game, Bafana Bafana coach Stuart Baxter had vowed to cause an Egyptian 'national disaster', and his team delivered on that promise, playing with intensity from the first whistle.
South Africa's impressive performance was led by Percy Tau, who pulled the strings and frustrated Egypt's attacking play.
Even Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah, who had shaken off a cold to make the Egyptian starting XI, had a disappointing evening, firing a half-volley wide in the early stages.
