By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, December 30 2025 - South Africa secured their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 Round of 16, dramatically defeating Zimbabwe 3–2 thanks to a late penalty that sealed a thrilling win and eliminated the Warriors from the tournament on matchday three of the group stage.
From the outset, South Africa took the lead when Tshepang Moremi opened the scoring in the 7th minute, curling a left-footed strike into the box to give Bafana Bafana an early advantage. The visitors’ positive start set the tone for a high-intensity clash.
Zimbabwe responded in spectacular fashion when Tawanda Maswanhise levelled in the 19th minute, producing a skillful finish that brought the Warriors back into the game and ignited hopes of a historic win.
Their confidence showed as they continued to challenge South Africa’s defence throughout the first half. South Africa regained the lead at the start of the second half when Lyle Foster doubled the score in the 50th minute, converting a chance that put Bafana Bafana back in front and underlining their determination to book a knockout spot.
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Zimbabwe, however, were far from finished. A goalmouth scramble resulted in an own goal by Aubrey Modiba in the 73rd minute, restoring parity and setting up a dramatic finale.
With qualification hanging in the balance, late drama unfolded. Following a VAR review for a handball in the box, South Africa were awarded a penalty in the 82nd minute, and Oswin Appollis stepped up to calmly dispatch the spot-kick, clinching a 3–2 win and sending Zimbabwe out of AFCON.
The victory secured South Africa’s place in the last 16, while Zimbabwe’s tournament came to an end despite a valiant effort. RSA will now prepare for the knockout stages and hope to advance beyond it as they face tougher opponents in the tournament.
