Afcon 2025: Lyle Foster scores as South Africa beat Zimbabwe 3-2 to reach last 16

In a competition marked by dynamic shifts and decisive interventions rather than sustained dominance, Bafana Bafana showed greater efficiency in key moments, capitalizing on defensive errors and setbacks.

Hugo Broos’ side were looking to bounce back from a 1-0 defeat to Egypt, having narrowly beaten Angola 2-1 in their opening match.

Here, both of their goals from open play came from errors rather than incision, with Arubi, 40, slowing his line for Foster’s header and the penalty decision being the result of poor body positioning from Nakamba.

While Zimbabwe were left to rue damaging errors and missed opportunities in the absence of injured striker Knowledge Musona, South Africa built their performance on attacking intent and midfield control, with Sipho Mbule and Teboho Mokoena constantly looking to advance the ball quickly.

Their front line was direct and willing to shoot early, repeatedly troubling opponents whose defensive focus and communication fell short at crucial moments.

Zimbabwe impressed with their spirit and attacking courage, refusing to sit back even when trailing, but their lack of cutting edge cost them as much as their defensive weaknesses.

New coach Mario Marinica had asked his team to remain more compact and manage matches better after a late 2-1 defeat to Egypt in their first match, while Musona’s outstanding goal earned them a 1-1 draw against Angola before that decisive defeat.

Tawanda Maswanhise stood out with his pace and dribbling, while Nakamba anchored the midfield with intensity, although his aggression led to irregularities at times.

Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams continues to provide calm leadership at the back for South Africa, whose second win means they finish the group stage with six points – four clear of Angola – although the goals they conceded here will raise questions about defending ahead of Williams.

Their ability to respond to setbacks, however, demonstrated a mentality that could prove vital as they attempt to improve on their third-place finish at AFCON 2023.