South Africa advanced to the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic 3-2 win over Zimbabwe in Marrakech. The match was full of twists, with both teams exchanging goals in a back-and-forth battle.
South Africa started strongly, taking the lead just seven minutes in when Tshepang Moremi’s shot deflected off Divine Lunga into the net. Zimbabwe responded with flair, as Tawanda Maswanhise weaved through the defence to score one of the tournament’s standout goals.
Early in the second half, South Africa regained the lead through Lyle Foster, who finished a back-header to score his second goal of the group stage. Zimbabwe pushed hard with three substitutions, and their efforts paid off when a Ronwen Williams save ricocheted off Aubrey Modiba into the net, making it 2-2.
The winner came late from Oswin Appollis, who converted a penalty after Marvelous Nakamba handled the ball, confirmed by VAR. This victory saw South Africa finish second in Group B, behind Egypt, who drew 0-0 with Angola. Zimbabwe were eliminated, failing to advance from the group stage in any of their six Afcon appearances.
South Africa now prepare to face the runners-up from Group F—Ivory Coast, Cameroon, or Mozambique—in Rabat. The game will take place on Sunday at 19:00 GMT.
This result highlights Lyle Foster’s scoring form, the impact of VAR decisions, and South Africa’s ability to fight in high-pressure moments, keeping their Afcon hopes alive.
