Late Penalty Seals South Africa’s Place in Knockout Rounds After Zimbabwe Scare

By Joshua Kosimbom,

Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon

South Africa booked their place in the knockout rounds in dramatic fashion after edging Zimbabwe 3–2 in a pulsating Group B encounter that embodied the chaos, courage, and character of African football. Bafana Bafana showed resilience under pressure to finish second in the group with six points, keeping their tournament ambitions alive despite a tense finish.

The South Africans struck early, asserting intent from the opening minutes. Tshepang Moremi’s deflected effort gave them the lead before Zimbabwe responded with fearless attacking play, highlighted by Tawanda Maswanhise’s superb individual finish to restore parity. The contest quickly evolved into a battle of belief, with neither side willing to retreat.

After the break, South Africa regained control when Lyle Foster capitalised on a defensive lapse to restore their advantage. Yet Zimbabwe refused to fade, and an unfortunate own goal by Aubrey Modiba brought the scores level once more, setting the stage for a frantic final stretch.

As tension peaked, composure proved decisive. A late VAR review awarded South Africa a penalty, and Oswin Appollis stepped forward with ice-cold confidence to convert in the 82nd minute. The goal ultimately separated the sides, despite Zimbabwe’s late surge and sustained pressure deep into stoppage time.

Oswin Appollis earned the man of the match honors at Fulltime.

Zimbabwe, who finish bottom of the group with one point, earned admiration rather than consolation. Their attacking bravery, quick transitions, and refusal to surrender made them a constant threat and a reminder of the increasing competitiveness across African football. On another night, their performance might have delivered a different outcome.

For South Africa, the final whistle confirmed progress and promise.

This was not a perfect performance, but it was a powerful one defined by mentality, depth, and the ability to navigate adversity. As they move into the knockout phase, Bafana Bafana carry momentum, belief, and proof that they can survive the toughest tests when it matters most.