Marian Marinica unfazed by Bafana Bafana frustration ahead of AFCON decider

South Africa and Zimbabwe meet in a high-stakes COSAFA derby knowing that a victory for either side would secure a place in the AFCON last 16.

Egypt have already sealed qualification after winning their opening two group matches, leaving Bafana needing only to avoid defeat, while the pressure rests firmly on the Warriors to claim all three points.

Zimbabwe recently frustrated South Africa in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, holding Hugo Broos' side to a draw at Moses Mabhida Stadium, and Marinica expects another fiercely contested contest in Morocco.

"It's tough to say because I can't be in their minds," Marinica told the media.

"But maybe they have some mental challenges after the Egypt game - that's part of football. We had something similar against Egypt when we felt it was a clear VAR penalty. The players and staff are professional enough not to live in the past. This is a new game."

Marinica also cautioned against the rivalry being blown out of proportion, stressing the importance of fair play.

"The rivalry can sometimes be taken too far. Everyone wants to win, there's no favouritism, and both teams will give their best. It's football entertainment - it's a football match, not a war - and we hope we are the better team on the day," he added.

The Zimbabwe coach has taken note of Bafana's struggles against Egypt's back-three system with wing-backs but stopped short of confirming whether the Warriors would adopt a similar tactical approach.

"It's horses for courses. We need to look at what we have," he said.

"Egypt thought that was the best option for them, and we will look at what the best solution is for us."

The Group B finale promises to be a tense and decisive showdown as both sides chase knockout-stage qualification.