Hosts South Africa were defeated 2-1 by Zambia while Angola beat Zimbabwe 2-0 in the semi-finals that were played at the University of Johannesburg’s AW Muller Stadium on Wednesday.
In the first semi-final, Angola troubled Zimbabwe but could not find the space behind the back four due to the deep defensive line as they mostly wanted to penetrate with quick short passes.
Angola’s Omar Oliviera enticed defenders on the left flank, cut inside to either combine with attacking midfielder Jairo Muanha or take shots from distance.
Additionally, Omar provided good crosses into the penalty area although they were not converted.
Zimbabwe’s Valentine Macheka took shots from distance and in the 31st minute, he hit the crossbar after Zimbabwe were awarded a free kick near the penalty arc.
After numerous attempts at goal, Angola finally took the lead through Eliseu Francisco in the 43rd minute from Omar’s assist.
In the second half, Zimbabwe were the better side but could not convert the chances they created. Then in the 63rd minute, Omar doubled Angola’s lead after a great line-breaking pass from Joao Capitao Manelson.
