In a regional fixture, South Africa knocked out Zimbabwe for a place in the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a dramatic 3-2 victory over in Marrakech on Monday.

1996 AfCON winners, South Africa took the lead after seven minutes through Tshepang Moremi.

But Tawanda Maswanhise equalized for Zimbabwe, scoring one of the best goals of the tournament.

In the second half, Bafana Bafana scored through Lyle Foster in the 50th minute when he pounced on a back header, beating Washington Arubi to the ball to nod home his second goal of the group stage.

Zimbabwe’s persistence paid off when goalkeeper Ronwen Williams’ save sent the ball hit into face of defender Aubrey Modiba and into his own net.

When it looked the match would end into a draw, South Africa were awarded a penalty after captain Marvelous Nakamba was judged for handball through VAR check.

Owen Appollis then converted from the resulting spot kick.

The triumph ensured Bafana Bafana finish second in Group B, behind Egypt.

Egypt, AfCON seven-time winners, earlier on Monday drew 0-0 against Angola.

Looking ahead, South Africa will face the runners-up from Group F—Ivory Coast, Cameroon, or Mozambique—in Rabat on Sunday.