With both Zimbabwe and Angola chasing redemption after narrow 2–1 defeats in their opening Group B matches, Friday’s showdown now carries knockout-level importance at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Zimbabwe fell agonisingly to Egypt, while Angola were edged out by South Africa — leaving no margin for error for either side as the group begins to take shape.
Opening Match Context
Zimbabwe national football team: Lost 2–1 to Egypt after a spirited performance
Angola national football team: Lost 2–1 to South Africa despite a strong second-half push
Both teams sit on zero points going into Matchday Two
Head-to-Head Record: Zimbabwe vs Angola
The historical numbers point to a remarkably even rivalry, particularly when matches are played in Harare.
Overall Meetings (1981–2018)
Total matches: 14
Zimbabwe wins: 6
Angola wins: 4
Draws: 4
Goals
Zimbabwe goals: 18
Angola goals: 15
Zimbabwe hold a slight historical edge, especially on home soil.
Competitive Matches Breakdown
World Cup Qualifiers
Zimbabwe wins: 3
Angola wins: 2
Draws: 2
Notable results:
Zimbabwe 2–0 Angola (2006 WCQ, Harare)
Zimbabwe 2–1 Angola (1994 WCQ, Harare)
AFCON Qualifiers
One win apiece across two-legged ties
Zimbabwe’s standout result: 3–1 win in Harare (2012)
Friendlies
Mostly balanced, including:
2–2 draw (2018, Zambia – decided on penalties)
2–0 Zimbabwe win (1990)