2023 AFCON Third-Place Play Off Betting Odds

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The 2023 AFCON third-place play off traditionally takes place a day prior to the final. This year, South Africa is going to meet DR Congo on February 10th. Who will win the bronze in the top-tier international men’s association football competition in Africa? 

2023 AFCON third-place play off predictions

South Africa’s journey at the Africa Cup of Nations has been remarkable, despite being considered underdogs by 20Bet. However, their hopes of winning the trophy for only the second time in history, and the first time in this century, were shattered in a tense penalty shootout loss to Nigeria. Nevertheless, their performance marks their best in AFCON since coming third in 2000, a feat achieved after losing to Nigeria in the semi-finals.

South Africa’s progress to the 2023 AFCON third-place play off has been inspiring. Despite a mediocre group phase, where they finished second (W1, D1, L1), they managed to eliminate pre-tournament favourites Morocco and Cape Verde. This success speaks to the team’s cohesion, with nine players from the matchday squad against Nigeria representing the club side Mamelodi Sundowns.

For the Democratic Republic of Congo, their impressive AFCON run ended with a 1-0 loss to hosts Ivory Coast in the semi-finals. However, they still have a chance to claim the bronze medal, which they last achieved in 2015. The Leopards relied on penalty shootouts and second-half goals to progress in previous knockout ties, suggesting they might face challenges in securing any rewards.

Despite DR Congo’s historically poor head-to-head record against South Africa (W1, D1, L5), including losses in both previous AFCON encounters, they remain hopeful. Additionally, DR Congo boasts a perfect record in AFCON third-place games (W2) since changing their name from Zaire. 

What about the odds? Online sportsbooks in South Africa gives their national team 3.35 odds, while Congo has 2.35.

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