A masterful brace from veteran midfielder Themba Zwane propelled South Africa to a commanding 4-0 victory over regional rivals Namibia in their Africa Cup of Nations Group E clash on Sunday.
The dominant performance boosts South Africa’s chances of reaching the knockout rounds after losing their opener to Mali.
Zwane turned back the clock with a vintage display, netting twice in the first half to give Bafana Bafana a lead they would never relinquish. Percy Tau opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Zwane struck in the 25th and 40th minutes.
Young substitute Thapelo Maseko added gloss to the scoreline with a well-taken fourth 15 minutes from time.
The emphatic win moves South Africa ahead of Namibia on goal difference behind group leaders Mali. It sets up a mouthwatering final group match against Tunisia, where the Carthage Eagles must win to keep their tournament hopes alive.
Namibia had threatened an early lead, with striker Peter Shalulile wasting two gilt-edged chances. But Zwane punished their profligacy in ruthless fashion.
The classy midfielder turned home a smart pullback from Thapelo Morena to double South Africa’s advantage after Tau’s penalty. He then used his guile to glide past defenders and slot home the third before the break.
Maseko’s composed finish on his tournament debut capped a dazzling attacking display from South Africa, whose four goals were the most scored by any nation at the tournament so far.
They will head into their finale against Tunisia brimming with confidence, while Namibia face the daunting task of needing a result against Mali to have any hope of progression.
