JOHANNESBURG, Gauteng: Minnows Ethiopia eliminated South Africa from the World Cup Africa zone qualifying competition yesterday by fighting back to defeat Central African Republic 2-1 in Congo.
The ‘Walias Antelopes’ topped Group A with 13 points, two more than 2010 World Cup hosts South Africa, whose 4-1 home win over Botswana in Durban proved futile.
Ethiopia join Algeria, Egypt, Ghana and Ivory Coast in the two-leg play-offs.
Nigeria overcame Malawi 2-0 in Calabar to win Group F with the match settled early in the second half when Victor Moses converted a penalty and Malawian Limbikani Mzava was red carded.
Cameroon host Libya today and a win for either country would take them through to the final round with the draw scheduled for September 16 in Cairo.
“Not qualifying for the final round is a huge personal disappointment,” admitted South Africa coach Gordon Igesund said yesterday. AFP
