As the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) approaches, our attention is drawn to Group B. This group promises to be one of the most intense and geographically diverse battles of the group stage.
The favourites Egypt, face two strong Southern African rivals, South Africa and Angola with Zimbabwe making a welcome and potentially a challenging return to the grand stage.
Group B is a true test of pedigree against momentum, experience and pride. While history suggests one winner, recent form pauses a chaotic struggle for the remaining knockout spots.
EGYPT: The Pharaohs in search of eighth star
- Nickname: The Pharaohs
- AFCON Appearances: 26th
- Best Result: 7-time Champions
- Expectation: Title Contender
Egypt enters AFCON 2025 with the weight of history and a national obsession to reclaim the continental title they last won in 2010. Holding a record of both the most trophies and appearances makes them favourites in almost any group.
Key players to watch: Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah remains the talisman and primary goal threat.
What to expect: Egypt is predicted to top Group B. The ability to conserve energy throughout the campaign will be key to overcoming rivals.
SOUTH AFRICA: Bafana Bafana’s momentum in check
- Nickname: Bafana Bafana
- AFCON Appearances: 12th
- Best Result: 1996
- Expectation: Serious contender for second place
South Africa’s Bafana Bafana head to Morocco with significant momentum after a highly successful qualifying campaign. Under coach Hugo Broos, the team has rediscovered a competitive edge led by home talent.
Key players to watch: Goalkeeper and captain Ronwen Mokwena will lead from the back while Teboho Mokwena pulls the strings in the middle park.
What to expect: South Africa is widely tipped to challenge Egypt for the top spot.
ANGOLA: The Palancas Negras’ resurgence
- Nickname: Palancas Negras (Black Sable Antelopes)
- AFCON Appearances: 10th
- Best Result: Quater-finals (2008, 2010, 2023)
- Expectation: Strong dark horse
Angola enters the tournament having reached the quarterfinals in 2023, showcasing a renewed competitive spirit. They are known for their physical resilience and ability to deploy rapid counterattacks, often proving difficult to break down even for the most skilled teams.
Key player to watch: The team will rely on the experience of players who featured in their 2023 campaign, such as Gelson Dala.
What to expect: Angola is the biggest threat to the projected top two sides in the group.
ZIMBABWE: The Warriors’ return to the fold
- Nickname: The Warriors
- AFCON Appearances: 6th
- Best Result: Group Stage
- Expectation: Underdogs
Zimbabwe’s qualification is significant, marking their return to the continental stage after a period of administrative difficulties and a ban from FIFA.
Key players to watch: Wolves’ Marshall Munetsi and Marvellous Nakamba will link up in the middle park to give the side the much-needed rhythm.
What to expect: As the lowest-ranked side, they will face a tough battle against the three group mates.
While Egypt and South Africa are steps ahead, their matchups against Angola and Zimbabwe will deliver high-stakes and dramatic scenes that will determine the final knockout bracket.