Coach Issues Warning Ahead of Bafana vs Zim Match
Regional rivals South Africa and Zimbabwe are set for a high-stakes showdown when they meet in their final Group B match of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Marrakesh on Monday evening.
With Egypt already assured of top spot in the group, the battle for second place — and a ticket to the Round of 16 — will be decided in this decisive encounter at the Stade de Marrakech. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00 CAT (GMT+2).
Bafana Bafana head into the clash sitting second in Group B on three points after opening their campaign with a 2–1 win over Angola before suffering a narrow 1–0 defeat to Egypt. That loss, settled by a Mohamed Salah penalty, left Hugo Broos’ men frustrated after dominating long spells against 10-man opposition.
South Africa now know that a win or a draw will be enough to secure qualification for the knockout stages.
Zimbabwe, by contrast, find themselves with no margin for error. The Warriors rebounded from a heartbreaking late defeat to Egypt with a spirited 1–1 draw against Angola, with veteran forward Knowledge Musona scoring the crucial equaliser. However, sitting bottom of the group on one point, only victory against Bafana will keep their AFCON dream alive.
Zimbabwe head coach Marian Marinica has been unequivocal about the task facing his side.
“There is no negotiating — we must win,” Marinica said, stressing the need for composure and ruthlessness in front of goal.
On the other side, South Africa coach Hugo Broos has called on his players to channel their anger from the Egypt defeat into Monday’s contest, insisting the controversial officiating decisions have only strengthened his team’s resolve.
The fixture also carries historical weight. South Africa are unbeaten against Zimbabwe since 2013, including taking four points off their neighbours during qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, recent goalless draws between the sides underline how finely balanced this rivalry has become.
For Zimbabwe, it is a fight for survival. For Bafana Bafana, it is a chance to take control of their AFCON destiny — and avoid unnecessary final-day nerves.
Monday night in Marrakesh promises tension, intensity, and a result that will shape Group B’s final outcome.