AFCON 2025: Bafana Bafana’s Group B Rival Suffers Player Withdrawal

With the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to kick off, Bafana Bafana’s Group B rivals Zimbabwe have suffered a setback.

Reading FC midfielder Andy Rinomhota has withdrawn from the Warriors’ squad just a day before their opening fixture against record champions Egypt, citing an urgent family matter.

The Zimbabwe Football Association confirmed Rinomhota’s absence, leaving coach Mario Marinica with a reduced midfield pool that includes Marvelous Nakamba, Jonah Fabisch, Prosper Padera, Tawanda Chirewa, and Knowledge Musona. Rinomhota expressed disappointment at missing the tournament, but pledged full support for his teammates from afar.

What does this mean for Bafana Bafana?

For Bafana Bafana, the development is significant as they prepare for their own AFCON campaign. South Africa will meet Zimbabwe on 29 December, a fixture that could prove decisive in shaping the group standings. The Warriors’ reshuffled midfield will be closely monitored by Bafana’s technical team as they plan for the clash.

Despite the setback, Zimbabwe remain determined to compete strongly in the tournament. Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana continue their preparations, focused on capitalizing on every opportunity to advance deep into AFCON.