AFCON 2025 Group B Preview: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe

Group B of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations is set for fireworks. Egypt, South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe collide in Morocco, a mix of serial winners, disciplined challengers, and fearless spoilers.

The first whistle blows December 22 at Grand Stade de Marrakech, promising tight margins and raw emotion as two former champions face two hungry disruptors.

The draw promised “fierce battles,” and Group B delivers: Egypt and South Africa carry pedigree, while Angola and Zimbabwe arrive intent on rewriting the script. Here’s a deep dive into what makes this pool one of the most intriguing in Morocco.

Egypt – The Pharaohs’ Eternal Pursuit

Egypt enters AFCON 2025 with the weight of history on its shoulders. Seven-time champions, the Pharaohs remain Africa’s most decorated team, yet their last triumph came in 2010. Since then, near misses have haunted them—final defeats in 2017 and 2021 still sting.

• Qualification Path: Egypt dominated Group C with 14 points, scoring 12 goals and conceding just two.
• Key Players: Mohamed Salah is the heartbeat of this team, supported by Omar Marmoush and Zizo.
• Strengths: Tactical discipline, tournament experience, and attacking depth.
• The Big Question: Can Egypt finally convert dominance into silverware after years of heartbreak?

South Africa – Bafana Bafana’s Rising Tide

From the glory of 1996 to the bronze medal in 2023, South Africa’s AFCON story is one of revival. Hugo Broos has transformed Bafana into a disciplined, confident unit. Their third-place finish in Ivory Coast was their best in over two decades, and now they aim higher.

• Qualification Path: Topped Group K with 14 points, scoring 16 goals and conceding just five.
• Key Players: Themba Zwane’s creativity, Appolis Oswin’s finishing, and Teboho Mokoena’s midfield control.
• Strengths: Organized defense, quick transitions, and a growing winning mentality.
• The Big Question: Will Bafana build on their resurgence and challenge for the crown?

Angola – The Silent Contender

Angola may not command headlines, but their consistency speaks volumes. Group F winners with a watertight defense, they enter AFCON 2025 as genuine dark horses.

• Qualification Path: 14 points, just two goals conceded—the best defensive record in their group.
• Key Players: Gelson Dala and Mabululu provide pace and precision in attack.
• Strengths: Compact defense and counter-attacking prowess.
• The Big Question: Can Angola upset the giants and reach the knockout rounds?

Zimbabwe – Fighting for Respect

Zimbabwe’s AFCON history is modest, but their hunger is undeniable. After finishing second in Group J behind Cameroon, they arrive in Morocco determined to rewrite their story.

• Qualification Path: 9 points, edging past competitive rivals.
• Key Players: Knowledge Musona and Tino Kadewere bring experience and firepower.
• Strengths: Physicality, set-piece threat, and a fearless approach.
• The Big Question: Will this be the year they break their group-stage curse?

Fixtures to Watch

• Egypt vs South Africa: A clash of titans that could decide the group winner.
• Angola vs Zimbabwe: A potential do-or-die battle for a knockout berth.

Prediction

Egypt and South Africa are favorites to progress, but Angola’s resilience and Zimbabwe’s unpredictability make Group B one of AFCON 2025’s most competitive pools.

Expect drama, tactical chess, and moments of magic.