Orlando Pirates star Kabelo Dlamini and Kaizer Chiefs-linked defender propel Bafana Bafana past Zimbabwe to boost South Africa's chances of reaching Cosafa Cup semi-final

Vela Khumalo's Bafana Bafana managed to register a vital 2-0 win against Zimbabwe in a Cosafa Cup match held in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

South Africa faced a scary moment in the 31st minute when Kamogelo Sebelebele, who had been yellow-carded in the 12th minute, lost possession in a dangerous area. However, Thakasani Mbanjwa was quick to leave his area and clear the danger as Zimbabwe threatened to score the opener.

After a series of dominance, Bafana finally broke the deadlock late in the first half. Masindi Nemtajela was brought down inside the box, and this gave South Africa a perfect chance to score. Orlando Pirates forward Kabelo Dlamini stepped up to take the penalty, and he was successful in his mission as he sent Martin Mapisa the wrong way to plant the ball into the net.

Mapisa did well to stop a dangerous move by South Africa; Boitumelo Radiopane spotted Nemtajela, who was in a promising position, but the Zimbabwean goalkeeper managed to pull off a save to deny the Pirates star a chance to double Bafana's lead in the added time of the first half.

Ime Okon, who is linked with Kaizer Chiefs, doubled South Africa's lead with a fine header in the 78th minute.

South Africa have moved to second place, and the win against Zimbabwe is a lifeline because only the top sides in the groups will proceed to the knockout phase.

Dlamini stepped up heroically and scored the goal that gave Mzansi their first win of the tournament.

The three points collected against the Warriors have boosted the chances of South Africa reaching the semi-final, thanks to the Pirates forward.

This is a goal that Bafana needed to boost their morale in the game as they fought for the vital victory.

Mapisa made several saves that kept the Warriors in the game. Given his general individual performance, this was a bad day in the office, and he did not deserve to be on the losing side.

South Africa would have easily doubled their lead in the 76th minute were it not for Mapisa to pull yet another save to deny Radiopane.

South Africa will face Mauritius in the final group game that will be played on Tuesday at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium.