South Africa’s national men’s football team, Bafana Bafana, booked their place in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a dramatic 3‑2 victory over regional rivals Zimbabwe in Marrakesh on Monday, 29 December 2025.
Bafana battle past Zimbabwe to progress
Bafana took an early lead in the Group B clash, with Tshepang Moremi scoring in the seventh minute. Zimbabwe responded through Tawanda Maswanhise, and the two sides went into halftime level. South Africa regained the lead early in the second half through Lyle Foster, but the Warriors again equalised before a late penalty converted by Oswin Appollis sealed the 3‑2 win and second place in Group B behind Egypt.
The victory sends Bafana into the knockout rounds where they are due to face a runner‑up from another group in the tournament’s round of 16 in early January.
Confirmed match facts
- Event: 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group B
- Match: South Africa 3–2 Zimbabwe
- Date & Venue: 29 December 2025, Marrakesh Stadium, Morocco
- Goals: Moremi (SA), Maswanhise (ZIM), Foster (SA), Appollis (SA – penalty)
What this means for South Africa
Bafana’s progression to the last 16 continues their continental campaign after opening wins and a narrow loss to Egypt. The result gives South Africa momentum heading into the knockout phase, where stronger opposition awaits.
South Africa now prepares for its next AFCON fixture in the round of 16, with hopes of advancing deeper into the tournament.
