The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) got underway in dramatic fashion. It brought with it a combination of encouraging moments and early setbacks for the COSAFA Nations. The COSAFA Nations are keen to make an impact at this year's AFCON tournament. Their AFCON journey promises to be exciting as they aim to secure their place in the upper ranks of African football.
In particular, the opening round proved to be a stern test for teams from the southern African region. They were immediately required to adapt not only to the pace but also to the intensity and overall quality of the tournament.
Moreover, while some teams struggled to find their rhythm, others managed to demonstrate resilience and promise. This highlighted both the challenges and potential within the region.
While, on the one hand, Angola, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, and Mozambique struggled to convert their efforts into tangible results despite showing promise. On the other hand, South Africa stood apart, distinguishing themselves as the only COSAFA representative to secure maximum points. Moreover, their disciplined approach and clinical finishing highlighted the gulf in consistency between Bafana Bafana and their regional counterparts.
Consequently, South Africa’s positive start provided them with an early boost in confidence. It also underlined the region’s potential on the continental stage. Nevertheless, the remaining teams now face a significant challenge, as they must regroup quickly and learn from their opening setbacks. They need to respond with improved performances in the matches ahead.
Therefore, while the first round exposed certain shortcomings among the majority of COSAFA nations, it simultaneously offered hope and motivation for recovery. It emphasised that early struggles do not necessarily dictate the outcomes of the tournament.
It’s worth remembering that the COSAFA region has a proud history in Africa Cup of Nations. Zambia won the tournament in 2012 and South Africa lifted the trophy in 1996. This gives fans plenty of reason to expect strong showings from these COSFA Nations AFCON.
South Africa - Bafana Bafana Clinch Maximum Points
South Africa 2–1 Angola
Bafana Bafana started their COSFA Nations AFCON campaign on a high. They recorded a vital 2-1 victory over Angola in Marrakech. Oswin Appollis opened the scoring in the 21st minute. After Angola equalized through Manuel Show, Lyle Foster struck late in the 79th minute to secure all three points for South Africa.
This win sets Bafana Bafana apart as the COSAFA frontrunners. It gives them momentum ahead of a tough clash against Egypt in Group B. Fans will hope the team maintains this form throughout the group stage.
Angola - Narrow Opening Loss
Angola 1–2 South Africa
Angola showed plenty of resilience throughout their contest with South Africa but fell just short of a positive result in the end. After going behind early, Manuel Show’s first-half goal brought the Palancas Negras back on level terms and briefly shifted the momentum in their favour. However, despite their improved showing, a late strike from Lyle Foster proved decisive. It denied Angola any points and sealed victory for South Africa.
The team will need to regroup quickly to stay competitive in their COSFA Nations AFCON upcoming group fixtures.
Zimbabwe - Heartbreak Against Egypt
Zimbabwe 1–2 Egypt
Zimbabwe started brightly, taking an early lead through Prince Dube, only to concede twice to Egypt in the second half. They were left to rue a narrow defeat after the Pharaohs mounted a late comeback, capped by a stoppage-time winner.
Although the result went against them, the Warriors showed resilience and displayed attacking promise throughout the contest. This offered encouragement despite the setback.
. They will aim to turn their fortunes around in the next COSFA Nations AFCON group matches.
Botswana - Struggles Against Senegal
Botswana 0–3 Senegal
Botswana endured a challenging start to their AFCON 2025 campaign. They struggled to gain a foothold and failed to register a single shot on target. Meanwhile, Senegal dominated proceedings from the outset. Early on, it became clear that the Teranga Lions’ attacking threat would be difficult to contain. Indeed, Nicolas Jackson opened the scoring before doubling the lead, further asserting Senegal’s control. Later, Cherif Ndiaye added a late goal to seal a comfortable victory for the visitors. This left Botswana with much to consider
Consequently, the Zebras will need to make significant adjustments. They must strengthen their defensive organisation and identify effective attacking solutions. Without these changes, their chances of securing points may remain limited. It is essential for them to regroup quickly and learn from this tough opening encounter.
Zambia - Late Drama Secures Draw
Zambia 1–1 Mali
Zambia, the 2012 AFCON champions, secured a valuable point in a dramatic encounter against Mali. They demonstrated both resilience and determination. After falling behind in the second half, the Chipolopolo responded impressively. Patson Daka headed home a late equaliser to rescue his team. As a result, the draw not only keeps Zambia in contention in Group A but also provides an important morale boost.
Furthermore, this outcome offers the team an opportunity to build momentum as they prepare for their upcoming matches. It highlights their ability to fight back even under pressure.
Mozambique - Narrow Loss to Ivory Coast
Mozambique 0–1 Ivory Coast
Mozambique’s opening match ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat to Ivory Coast. Amad Diallo scored the only goal in the 49th minute, just after the start of the second half. Despite a resilient performance, Mozambique were unable to find an equalizer. This leaves the Mambas with work to do in their upcoming group matches.
COSAFA Wrap-Up
Matchday one of COSFA Nations AFCON 2025 showed that South Africa leads the region with maximum points. At the same time, Zimbabwe and Zambia showed fight despite not winning. Botswana struggled in their opener, and Mozambique fell narrowly to Ivory Coast. Nevertheless, hopes remain alive for the region as the tournament progresses.
With South Africa (1996) and Zambia (2012) as former champions, COSAFA fans can remain optimistic. Regional nations can make a deep run in COSFA Nations AFCON 2025. As the group stage continues, all six nations will aim to build on their performances. They will push for progression to the knockout rounds.
