ZIMSPHERE
JOHANNESBURG – In a Group J 2025 AFCON Qualifier match, Khama Billiat's first-half penalty secured a 1-0 victory for Zimbabwe over Namibia at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa. This win propels Zimbabwe to the top of the group standings.
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| Image: Soccer24 |
Zimbabwe started the match with aggressive intent. Terrence Dzvukamanja nearly opened the scoring in the fifth minute, only to be thwarted by Namibia's goalkeeper. Namibia responded with an early corner but failed to capitalize on their initial chances.
The game settled into a midfield battle until the 30th minute when Zimbabwe was awarded a penalty after Jordan Zemura was fouled in the box.
Billiat confidently converted the penalty, despite Namibia's goalkeeper Edward Maova guessing the right direction.
Namibia's Prinz Tjiueza came close to equalizing before halftime, hitting the post with a powerful effort. Zimbabwe also threatened to extend their lead when Daniel Msendami's shot deflected off the post.
In the second half, Namibia intensified their search for an equalizer, but to no avail.
Tjiueza and Ivan Kamberipa tested Zimbabwe's goalkeeper Washington Arubi, who made crucial saves to maintain the lead.
Despite Namibia's relentless pressure, they could not break through Zimbabwe's defense.
With this victory, Zimbabwe moves to five points in the group, remaining unbeaten with a third consecutive clean sheet. The win also stands as a much-needed confidence booster for coach Michael Nees, who was still out for his first victory.
Namibia, still searching for their first point, will look to reverse their fortunes in the return fixture on Monday at the same venue.
As Zimbabwe takes the lead in Group J, Kenya and Cameroon, both with four points, prepare to face each other on Friday, having played one less match than Zimbabwe.
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