Bafana Bafana are going to meet the old foes Zimbabwe in the group stages of the Hollywoodbets COSAFA Cup following the draw that was concluded on Wednesday.
The other two nations, joining South Africa and Zimbabwe in Group A are Mauritius and Mozambique.
This time around, the tournament will be held in Mangaung, Free State for the first time in history with the Free State Stadium, a venue for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium to host matches.
Currently, the two venues are being used by the Betway Premiership side Marumo Gallants who relocated to Bloemfontein at the beginning of the season.
Both Bafana Bafana and Zimbabwe will be eager to end their COSAFA Cup trophy droughts. South Africa hasn't lifted the silverware since 2021, while six-time champions Zimbabwe are looking to reclaim the title they last won in 2018. The lengthy wait will undoubtedly add an extra layer of determination for both sides.
The 2025 COSAFA Cup draw sets up a compelling rematch in Group B, as defending champions Angola are pitted against Namibia.
These two sides met twice in 2024, with a goalless draw in the group stage followed by Angola's dominant 5-0 win in the final. Also vying for progression in this group are Malawi and Lesotho.
The 2025 COSAFA Cup sees a high-profile addition in North African guest nation Morocco. They are drawn in a compact Group C with Madagascar and Eswatini.
In Group D, perennial contenders Zambia, boasting a record seven titles, will battle Comoros and Botswana for a knockout spot.
HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA CUP 2025 DRAW
GROUP A: South Africa, Mozambique, Mauritius, Zimbabwe
GROUP B: Angola, Namibia, Malawi, Lesotho
GROUP C: Morocco, Madagascar, Eswatini
GROUP D: Zambia, Comoros, Botswana
