COSAFA rivals set for knockout clash

THE COSAFA rivalry between Bafana Bafana and Zimbabwe will intensify when the two teams lock horns at Stade de Marrakesh tonight for a place in the AFCON knockout stage.

- MIHLALI BALEKA.

Bafana are currently second in Group B with three points, meaning a win or a draw against the third-placed Warriors, who have just one point after two rounds of matches, will be enough to steer them to the promised land.

Zimbabwe, however, could still secure a spot in the last 16 if they beat Bafana and finish either second in the group or as one of the four best third-placed teams across the group stage.

Given all those permutations, the two sides are expected to throw everything at each other for a place in the next round. Below, we look at three key match-ups that could decide what promises to be a thrilling COSAFA derby.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Bafana) v Knowledge Musona (Warriors)

Mbokazi has arguably been one of the standout defenders at AFCON so far.