CAN 2025: South Africa battle Zimbabwe for crucial round of 16 spot

South Africa and Zimbabwe go head-to-head today in a decisive Group B clash at the Grand Stade de Marrakech, as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage reaches its final matchday.

For Bafana Bafana, the task is clear. A draw will be enough to secure second place in the group and an automatic ticket to the Round of 16, with Egypt already confirmed as group winners.

Zimbabwe, however, face a must-win scenario. The Warriors need all three points to move to four points, keeping their qualification hopes alive—either by finishing in a qualifying position or through the ranking of the best third-placed teams.

With qualification on the line, both sides are expected to approach the encounter with intensity and urgency, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest that could go down to the wire in Marrakech.