The opening match of the World COSAFA Cup 2025 pits South Africa against Zimbabwe on Saturday, 7 June 2025. The action kicks off at 14:00 BST (UK) and 15:00 CEST (Italy, Germany, France, Spain) at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
SuperSport will provide live coverage across the continent as part of its HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup package running from 4 to 15 June. Fans on both sides will be eager to see who starts the tournament with momentum.
How are both teams coming into this?
South Africa enter the COSAFA Cup with home advantage and a solid defensive record in recent regional outings. The Bafana Bafana have shown cohesion at the back and discipline under pressure, making them a tough opponent on their own turf.
Zimbabwe arrive in Bloemfontein with a reputation for resilience. While they have struggled for consistency away from home, the Warriors are known for fighting spirit and could spring a surprise if they manage to unsettle their hosts early on.
Our forecast
Despite Zimbabwe’s tenacity, we expect South Africa’s blend of physicality and tactical organization to prevail. The home side should control possession and create the majority of clear-cut chances across the midfield and attacking third.
We predict a 2-0 victory for South Africa, with the hosts looking most dangerous from set-pieces and wide deliveries. Zimbabwe will defend deep but may lack the firepower to breach a well-drilled backline.
Best odds
Bet365: South Africa 1.50 • Draw 4.20 • Zimbabwe 7.50
William Hill: South Africa 1.55 • Draw 4.00 • Zimbabwe 8.00
Betfair: South Africa 1.52 • Draw 4.10 • Zimbabwe 7.80
