AFCON 2025: How Bafana Bafana’s Group B Opponents are preparing

With the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 just weeks away, teams are making the most of the November FIFA international window to fine-tune their squads.

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has opted for a conservative strategy, prioritizing player welfare over additional fixtures.

 With many key stars juggling intense domestic schedules and continental club competitions, Broos believes adding more games could risk fatigue and injuries before the tournament.

 Instead, Bafana Bafana will play a single warm-up match against Zambia in Gqeberha, using the clash to sharpen tactics and assess squad cohesion.

International Friendly Match

⚽️ South Africa 🇿🇦 vs 🇿🇲 Zambia
🗓 15 November 2025
⏰️ 15h00
🏟 Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha #BafanaPride@CastleLagerSA @10bet_ZA @flysaa @SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/wiipV5TzAw

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) November 12, 2025

The Belgian tactician insists that quality preparation matters more than quantity, aiming to ensure his players arrive in Morocco fresh and mentally sharp for their Group B battles against Egypt, Angola, and Zimbabwe.

 While some nations are involved in World Cup playoffs, Bafana Bafana’s Group B opponents are using this period for high-profile friendlies and tactical experiments ahead of Africa’s biggest football event:

Egypt: Tactical Refinement Under Hossam Hassan

The Pharaohs are taking a proactive approach, opting for a competitive environment rather than simple friendlies.

Under Hossam Hassan, Egypt will participate in a four-team tournament in the United Arab Emirates, designed to expose the squad to varied tactical challenges.

 Their first test comes against Uzbekistan on 14 November, followed by a second fixture four days later against the winner of Cape Verde vs Iran in Al Ain.

 Hassan’s strategy is clear: experiment with formations, improve defensive transitions, and integrate emerging talent alongside seasoned stars like Mohamed Salah. Building squad depth and adaptability is the priority.

Angola: Facing Messi to Mark 50 Years of Independence

Angola is making headlines with one of the most high-profile friendlies on the continent. To celebrate 50 years of independence, the Palancas Negras will face World Champions Argentina in Luanda on 14 November, with Lionel Messi expected to feature.

 This historic fixture is more than ceremonial, it’s a chance for Angola to test their defensive structure and attacking transitions against elite opposition. Four days later, they meet Guinea-Bissau in a Lusophone derby that promises intensity and familiarity, giving coach Pedro Gonçalves an opportunity to rotate his squad and sharpen attacking options.

Zimbabwe: Warriors Begin a New Era Under Marinica

The Warriors enter the November window with renewed optimism under newly appointed coach Mario Marinica, tasked with restoring pride ahead of AFCON 2025.

Marinica’s first assignment is a stern one: Zimbabwe will face Algeria in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 13 November, a clash that promises to test their defensive resilience against one of Africa’s most potent attacking sides.

 Four days later, Zimbabwe lock horns with Qatar, a team known for its technical quality and high pressing game. These fixtures will help Marinica assess his squad’s tactical discipline and mental toughness before the Morocco showdown.