South Africa sealed their place in the AFCON 2025 round of 16 with a dramatic 3–2 victory over Zimbabwe in their final Group B match at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.
Bafana Bafana started strongly and took an early lead when Moremi’s effort deflected off Divine Lunga and looped over goalkeeper Washington Arubi.
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Zimbabwe responded in the 19th minute through a brilliant solo effort from Tawanda Maswanhise, sending the teams into halftime level at 1–1.
South Africa regained the lead in the 50th minute, with Foster forcing the ball over the line after a defensive mix-up. Zimbabwe fought back again and equalised in the 74th minute when Maswanhise’s effort deflected into the net following a scramble in the box.
The decisive moment came late when a VAR-reviewed handball was awarded against Zimbabwe. Oswin Appollis calmly converted the penalty in the 82nd minute, securing a crucial win for South Africa.
The result sends South Africa through to the knockout stage, while Zimbabwe exit the tournament despite a spirited performance.
