South Africa edge Zimbabwe in AFCON thriller to book knockout place
South Africa secured their place in the knockout stages of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 after surviving a dramatic 3–2 victory over a fearless Zimbabwe side in Group B.
In a contest that swung repeatedly and remained tense until the final whistle, Bafana Bafana showed just enough composure and resilience to come out on top, while Zimbabwe were left to rue missed moments in a brave but ultimately unsuccessful campaign.
Fast start gives Bafana early control
South Africa could not have asked for a better opening. Inside seven minutes, Tshepang Moremi reacted quickest to a deflected effort, lifting the ball over goalkeeper Arubi to hand his side an early lead.
Buoyed by the opener, Bafana Bafana pressed with confidence. Thapelo Mbule and Oswin Appollis drove forward from midfield, pinning Zimbabwe back and threatening to extend the advantage.
Maswanhise brilliance sparks Zimbabwe response
Zimbabwe refused to be overwhelmed and hit back in spectacular fashion. In the 19th minute, Tawanda Maswanhise lit up the match with a stunning solo effort, weaving past multiple defenders before smashing home to level the score.
The goal injected belief into the Warriors and ensured an entertaining first half, with both sides trading momentum in a high-tempo encounter.
Foster restores lead as drama intensifies
South Africa regained control shortly after the restart, capitalising on defensive hesitation from Zimbabwe. Lyle Foster reacted sharply in the 50th minute, looping a clever header over Arubi to restore Bafana’s lead.
Zimbabwe remained dangerous and came agonisingly close to equalising again when Maswanhise’s fierce strike crashed against the post midway through the second half, a warning sign that the contest was far from settled.
VAR, penalty drama and a frantic finish
The decisive moment arrived in the final quarter-hour. Following a VAR review, the referee awarded South Africa a penalty for a handball by Marvelous Nakamba. Oswin Appollis kept his nerve, calmly converting from the spot in the 82nd minute to make it 3–1.
Zimbabwe refused to surrender. An own goal from Aubrey Modiba reduced the deficit and set up a chaotic finale, with the Warriors throwing everything forward in stoppage time.
Under sustained pressure, South Africa defended resolutely to hold on, securing three vital points and confirming qualification for the knockout stages.
What it means
The victory sees South Africa finish second in Group B with six points, safely through to the next round. Zimbabwe, despite an impressive and spirited display, exit the tournament bottom of the group with just one point.
