Their journey to the third-place victory followed a challenging semi-final clash against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, where they suffered a 4-2 defeat in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regular time.

In the third-place faceoff against DR Congo, the regulation time ended in a goalless draw, leading to a penalty shootout. South Africa emerged victorious with a 6-5 scoreline, with Rowen Williams making crucial saves for his team.

Meanwhile, Ivory Coast secured a spot in the final by defeating DR Congo with a lone goal from Sebastien Haller in the 65th minute.

The 2023 AFCON final between Ivory Coast and Nigeria is scheduled for 9 p.m. on Sunday, February 11.