Bafana Bafana to Face Group F Runners-Up in AFCON Last 16
South Africa’s reward for progressing to the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is a Round of 16 clash against the runner-up from Group F, with Ivory Coast and Cameroon currently the leading contenders.
Both nations are tied on four points heading into the final round of Group F fixtures, while Mozambique remain in contention as outsiders. Gabon have already been eliminated.
Bafana sealed qualification in dramatic fashion with a 3–2 victory over Zimbabwe in Marrakech, a result that secured second place in Group B behind Egypt, who were held to a goalless draw by Angola in their final match.
Oswin Appollis’ late penalty proved decisive in a pulsating Southern African derby, as Hugo Broos’ men showed composure in key moments to edge a contest defined by momentum swings and defensive errors at both ends.
South Africa now turn their attention to Rabat, where they will face the Group F runners-up on Sunday (19:00 GMT). Whether it is the reigning champions Ivory Coast, five-time winners Cameroon, or a surprise package Mozambique, Bafana are bracing for a significantly sterner test in the knockout phase.
While defensive lapses against Zimbabwe will concern Broos, South Africa’s ability to respond under pressure — combined with their attacking intent and midfield control — offers encouragement as they look to go beyond their third-place finish at the 2023 Afcon.
For Zimbabwe, elimination marks yet another group-stage exit, extending their wait to progress beyond the first round at the continental finals.