Angola vs Zimbabwe: Preview, Key Stats, Quotes and Where to Watch

The second matchday of Group B of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations already carries the weight of judgment. Both Angola and Zimbabwe suffered defeats in their opening fixtures, and now meet this Thursday at the Grand Stade de Marrakech in a contest that could prove decisive in the race for qualification.

Kick-off is set for 20h00 local time (19h00 GMT) at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.

In a group where margins are razor-thin, this encounter has the feel of a knockout tie despite being played so early in the tournament.

Angola: Frustration Meets Resolve

Angola’s opening loss for Bafana Bafana left a bitter taste. The Palancas Negras created several clear chances but failed to convert dominance into goals. Head coach Patrice Beaumelle insists there will be no panic, stressing discipline and efficiency:

“We faced a solid team and showed good things. At this level, mistakes are punished immediately.”

Defender Jonathan Buatu echoed the sentiment, highlighting the need to build on positives while correcting errors:

“We played against a very good team, unbeaten for a long time. Now the important thing is to keep what we did well and correct our mistakes.”

Zimbabwe: Courage Under Pressure

Zimbabwe were cruelly beaten by Egypt in the final minutes of their opener, showed intensity and organisation that unsettled their opponents. Head coach Marian Marinica urged his side to move forward with belief:

“In this group, all teams still have a chance. The past is behind us; we must look forward.”

Captain Marvelous Nakamba reinforced the collective mindset:

“We are training well, we have analysed our first match and now everything is focused on this game. We want to give everything and get a positive result.”

Pre-Match Stats

Angola and Zimbabwe have met four times in AFCON qualifiers (1998, 2013), with Angola progressing each time.
They also clashed in 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, each winning at home before Angola advanced to Germany.
Across their last four meetings: Angola 3 wins, Zimbabwe 1.
Their first encounter was in 1985, a friendly won by Zimbabwe 3–2.