South Africa secured a thrilling 3-2 victory against Zimbabwe in Marrakech to book their place in the knockout stage of Afcon 2025. A late penalty from Oswin Appollis ensured Bafana Bafana finished second in Group B, behind Egypt, while Zimbabwe were eliminated.
The match swung back and forth: South Africa struck first in the 7th minute as Tshepang Moremi’s shot deflected off Divine Lunga over the goalkeeper. Zimbabwe quickly responded when Tawanda Maswanhise dribbled through to score a stunning equalizer. In the second half, Lyle Foster restored South Africa’s lead with a header, only for Zimbabwe to level again through an unfortunate own goal by Aubrey Modiba. Appollis then sealed the win with a penalty following a handball by Marvelous Nakamba, confirmed by VAR.
South Africa will now face the runners-up from Group F—Ivory Coast, Cameroon, or Mozambique—in Rabat, while Zimbabwe remains winless in six Afcon appearances.
Bafana Bafana’s win was built on efficient finishing, quick transitions, and midfield control, despite defensive lapses. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams provided leadership at the back, while Sipho Mbule and Teboho Mokoena drove the attack. The team’s resilience and ability to respond to setbacks could prove key as they aim to improve on their third-place finish from Afcon 2023.
