South Africa advance to Round of 16 after thrilling win over Zimbabwe

South Africa secured their place in the Round of 16 at the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Zimbabwe in the final round of Group B matches at the Stade de Marrakesh on Monday, December 29.

Oswin Appollis converted a late penalty to seal second place in Group B for Bafana Bafana, knocking out their southern African rivals in a pulsating encounter.

South Africa took the lead twice through Tshepang Moremi and Lyle Foster, but Zimbabwe responded on both occasions. Tawanda Maswanhise drew the Warriors level the first time before an unfortunate own goal by Aubrey Modiba cancelled out Foster’s strike.

With the contest seemingly heading for a draw, Zimbabwe midfielder Marvelous Nakamba was penalised for handball on the goal line following a video assistant referee (VAR) review.

Appollis calmly stepped up to convert from the spot, netting his second goal of the tournament and sending South Africa into the knockout phase.

Bafana Bafana will now face the runners-up from Group F in the Round of 16.