Story by Anashe Murombedzi
ZIMBABWE’S 2025 COSAFA Cup campaign now hangs by a thread after the Warriors slumped to a 2-0 defeat against South Africa in their second Group A encounter, played on Saturday at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein.
The loss leaves Zimbabwe at the bottom of the group standings with a solitary point, having drawn their opening match against Mauritius.
The encounter began with promise for the Warriors, who showed glimpses of attacking intent in the early stages.
However, a defensive lapse in the 5th minute resulted in a penalty for the hosts, which was duly converted, giving South Africa an early lead.
Despite Zimbabwe’s efforts to respond, South Africa maintained control for much of the match. Kabelo Dlamini sealed the victory for Bafana Bafana with a second goal, leaving the Warriors with a mountain to climb.
With just one group fixture remaining a must-win clash against Mozambique, Zimbabwe’s fate is no longer entirely in their hands.
Even a victory may not guarantee progression, as the Warriors must also rely on favourable results from other matches in the group.
In the group’s other fixture, Mozambique and Mauritius played to a 1-1 draw, a result that complicates matters further for Zimbabwe. Mozambique now tops the group with four points, followed by South Africa (three points) and Mauritius (two points).
The Warriors will now look to regroup ahead of their final match, aware that only a win and a bit of luck can keep their COSAFA Cup hopes alive.
