Story by ZBC Reporter
WITH just weeks to go before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco, the Warriors are fine-tuning preparations for a daunting Group B opener against Egypt, home to global star Mohamed Salah.
Zimbabwe were drawn months ago in a tricky pool that also includes neighbours South Africa and a competitive Angola side. The assignment comes with high expectations, as the Warriors return to the continental stage after missing the last edition due to FIFA suspension.
This will be Zimbabwe’s sixth AFCON appearance, and the big question remains whether the team can finally break past the group stage, something they have never achieved despite producing memorable performances in the past.
Recent warm-ups have shown both promise and warning signs. A 2-1 win over Qatar, with goals from Munashe Garananga and Bill Antonio, ended a frustrating winless spell, however, a 3-1 defeat to Algeria exposed several tactical gaps still demanding attention.
The pathway is clear, Egypt bring pedigree and star power, South Africa carry 1996 championship status and regional rivalry, while Angola have become known for stubborn defensive discipline.
With only the top two teams and the best four third-placed sides advancing, every goal and every point may decide Zimbabwe’s fate.
AFCON 2025 runs from December 21 to January 18. The countdown has begun, the stakes are high, and the Warriors are eyeing a breakthrough that has eluded them for decades.
