South Africa Edge Past Zimbabwe to Reach AFCON Knockout Stage as Angola Stumble

South Africa secured their place in the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations with a dramatic 3–2 victory over Zimbabwe, surviving a late scare to advance alongside Egypt from Group B.

Bafana Bafana made a positive start and took the lead when Tshepang Moremi’s shot deflected past goalkeeper Washington Arubi, looping into the net to give South Africa an early advantage. Zimbabwe responded well and were rewarded when Tawanda Maswanhise weaved past two defenders before driving a powerful effort home to restore parity.

The momentum swung back in South Africa’s favour shortly after the interval as Lyle Foster rose above the defence to nod the ball over the onrushing Arubi, putting Hugo Broos’ side back in front. However, Zimbabwe refused to fold and drew level once again when Ronwen Williams saved Maswanhise’s initial effort, only for Aubrey Modiba to inadvertently divert the rebound into his own net.

With the contest finely balanced, the decisive moment arrived seven minutes from time. Marvelous Nakamba was penalised for a handball inside the penalty area, and Oswin Appollis kept his composure to calmly convert the resulting spot-kick, sealing a crucial victory for South Africa and ending Zimbabwe’s tournament hopes.

Elsewhere in Group B, Angola’s chances of progressing to the last 16 were left hanging by a thread after a goalless draw against already-qualified Egypt in Agadir.

The southern African side required a win to keep alive any realistic hope of qualification, either by finishing second or by securing a place among the best third-placed teams. However, South Africa’s victory earlier in the day meant that even three points would not have been enough to secure a top-two finish for Angola.

The stalemate leaves Angola with just two points, meaning their only remaining hope is to qualify as the fourth-ranked third-placed team, a scenario that now appears unlikely.

Egypt, who had already confirmed their progression with victories over South Africa and Zimbabwe, rested several key players, including Mohamed Salah, who remained on the bench throughout the match.

Having finished top of Group B, the Pharaohs will face a third-placed team in the last 16 when the knockout stage begins on 5 January.