AFCON 2025: Zimbabwe’s Loss to Algeria Gives Bafana Bafana Key Insights Ahead of Group B Clash

The countdown to the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 is gathering pace, and all eyes are on Group B, where Bafana Bafana will lock horns with regional rivals Zimbabwe, alongside two other competitive sides.

This Southern African derby is already shaping up as one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament, given the history and intensity between the two nations.

Zim Fall to Algeria in Warm-Up Test

Zimbabwe’s preparations hit a bump on Thursday as they suffered a 3–1 defeat to Algeria in an international friendly.

The North Africans dominated the first half, racing to a commanding lead through goals from Baghdad Bounedjah (14’), Mohamed Amoura (41’), and Jaouen Hadjam (45+2’). Algeria’s high press and quick ball circulation left the Warriors struggling to cope.

However, the second half told a different story. Zimbabwe regrouped after making four halftime substitutions Padera, Murwira, Chirewa, and Dube which injected energy and tactical balance. They pressed higher, controlled midfield spaces, and limited Algeria’s build-up play.

Their resilience paid off in the 88th minute, when Tawanda Chirewa converted a penalty to make it 3–1. While the result favored Algeria, Zimbabwe’s spirited second-half performance showcased depth and character, qualities that could trouble Bafana Bafana in Group B.

Bafana Step Up Preps with Zambia

Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana are sharpening their tools for AFCON with a crucial warm-up match against Zambia this weekend.

Coach Hugo Broos is expected to use the fixture to fine-tune combinations, assess fringe players, and build momentum ahead of the continental showpiece.

The clash against Chipolopolo is particularly significant, as Zambia’s physicality and tactical discipline mirror some of the challenges Bafana will face in Morocco.

Broos has emphasized the importance of maintaining intensity and improving attacking efficiency, two areas that could define South Africa’s success in a group that promises tight margins.

SAFE HANDS: Bafana Bafana goalkeeper coach Grant Johnson takes goalminders Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine and Ricardo Goss through their paces ahead of our clash against Zambia at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday.#BafanaPride@10bet_ZA @SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/8VwyJ9J3Yb

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) November 13, 2025

COSAFA Derby with High Stakes

The meeting between Bafana Bafana and Zimbabwe on December 29 is more than just a group-stage clash; it’s a battle for pride and regional supremacy.

With AFCON 2025 set to kick off in Morocco, the pressure is on for both sides to hit peak form.

For Bafana, the Zambia friendly is a stepping stone toward cohesion and confidence. For Zimbabwe, lessons from their Algerian test will be crucial in refining their approach.