Zimbabwe and South Africa will clash in a decisive Group B encounter at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco on Monday.

Bafana Bafana head into the match seeking to bounce back from a 1–0 defeat to Egypt, while the Warriors will be encouraged a 1–1 draw against Angola.

A victory for either side will guarantee qualification to the knockout stages of the tournament.

Speaking ahead of the match, Hugo Broos said South Africa’s approach will be pragmatic, with qualification firmly in sight but no room for complacency.

Broos said. “If we do not lose this match, we will be qualified for the next round, and that is what matters most for us.”

The Belgian tactician, however, warned that Zimbabwe remains a dangerous opponent.

“We will need to be at our best to get a good result against a motivated Zimbabwe.”

Zimbabwe head coach Marian Marinica stressed the importance of focusing on the task at hand.

Marinica said. “Of course, there may have been some challenges, but that is part of football.”

Marinica also reflected on controversial moments from their previous match but insisted his team remains focused.

“Against Egypt, for example, we felt there was a clear situation that deserved VAR intervention” he said.

“The players, just like the staff, are professional enough to move forward. We cannot stay stuck in the past. This is a new match.”

Marinica downplayed the regional rivalry between the two nations.

“In the end, it is simply two nations facing each other, with the same ambition: to win.”

In the other Group B fixture, Angola, who are seeking at least a win or a draw, will face already qualified Egypt at 18:00 CAT.

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