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

The Africa Cup of Nations has always been a melting pot of history, talent, and drama. Group B at AFCON 2025 is no different.

Featuring Egypt, South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe, this group promises tactical battles, individual brilliance, and a fight for survival. 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.