Mamelodi Sundowns legend Esrom Nyandoro admits Bafana Bafana are ahead of Zimbabwe and Angola, but has warned them against a peculiar mentality — one that could cost them at the 2025 AFCON.
After their impressive semi-final run in the last edition, Hugo Broos’ troops enter Group B as firm favourites to reach the knockout rounds. They are joined by continental heavyweights and seven-time champions Egypt, who are widely expected to contend for the title.
However, a confident Angola side—buoyed by their recent quarter-final appearance—remains the dark horse, buzzing with the belief that they can go all the way.”
Bafana Bafana kicks off their 2025 AFCON campaign against Angola on Monday, December 22, at 19:00 at the Grand Stade de Marrakech. Meanwhile, on the sme night, Egypt takes on Zimbabwe at 2200 at Stade Adrar in Agadir.
In truth, Group B is tough, with Zimbabwe emerging as the underdogs, given they’re the lowest-ranked nation in the group according to FIFA’s latest rankings. But Esrom Nyandoro, who played for Zimbabwe at AFCON 2004 and 2006, warned Bafana Bafana: ‘Don’t underestimate them [Zimbabwe] and Angola.’
NYANDORO’S WARNING TO HUGO BROOS’ TEAM
In an interview with FARPost, Nyandoro said: “This is going to be very difficult for both teams [Bafana and Angola]. When Southern African teams play, you throw away the momentum or form. South Africa is on a roll, but we Zimbabweans want to prove a point. The Africa Cup of Nations is tough, but I think we stand a chance. It only takes a moment, and situations.”
The retired midfielder reckons AFCON games are decided by tiny moments, saying his 2004 goal against Cameroon is still etched in his mind.
“It takes only a moment. It takes a team with a good moment, team spirit, and a winning mentality. So at the moment, you put South Africa ahead of Zimbabwe and Angola, but they mustn’t underestimate Zimbabwe. It’s a tough one, but the first game is very important. For us, it’s about getting those three points and looking to the next game.
“It’s a very interesting group, and we know each other. Most players have played in that league [Betway Premiership] in South Africa. So it’s an open game, very interesting to watch, but Bafana should beware,” Nyandoro added.
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