AFCON Group B is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and tactically rich groups at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025. With continental heavyweights Egypt, a disciplined South Africa, an improving Angola, and an unpredictable Zimbabwe, this group promises intensity, contrasting styles, and fine margins that will decide qualification.
This deep-dive preview analyses recent form, FIFA rankings, squad quality, star players, tactical strengths, and delivers match-by-match predictions, including scores, group leaders, and final standings.
AFCON Group B Overview
- Teams: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe
- FIFA Rankings:
- Egypt – 34
- South Africa – 61
- Angola – 89
- Zimbabwe – 129
On paper, Egypt enter as favourites, but AFCON history shows that rankings rarely tell the full story. South Africa’s structure, Angola’s attacking growth, and Zimbabwe’s resilience ensure no easy games.
Egypt – The Group Favourite with Elite Firepower
Recent Form & Momentum
Egypt arrive with a strong competitive record, especially in World Cup qualifiers where they showed defensive solidity and efficiency. Victories over Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Guinea-Bissau highlight consistency, while mixed friendly results exposed some vulnerability against organized sides.
Key Players to Watch
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): The undisputed star. His pace, finishing, and leadership define Egypt’s attacking identity.
- Omar Marmoush (Manchester City): Offers versatility, direct running, and pressing intensity.
- Mostafa Mohamed (Nantes): A physical striker who thrives in the box.
- Emam Ashour & Hamdy Fathy: Control tempo and provide balance in midfield.
- Mohamed El Shenawy: A proven goalkeeper in high-pressure tournaments.
Tactical Identity
Egypt prefer a controlled build-up, quick wide transitions, and decisive moments in the final third. They defend compactly and punish mistakes. Their experience in knockout football gives them a psychological edge.
South Africa – Structure, Energy, and Tactical Discipline
Recent Form & Momentum
South Africa’s recent results show impressive defensive organization. Clean sheets against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Rwanda highlight discipline. The COSAFA Cup triumph and solid World Cup qualifying campaign underline their growth.
Key Players to Watch
- Ronwen Williams: One of Africa’s most reliable goalkeepers.
- Teboho Mokoena: Dictates tempo and protects the back line.
- Lyle Foster (Burnley): Physical presence with Premier League experience.
- Relebohile Mofokeng: Young, creative, and fearless.
Tactical Identity
South Africa play compact football with structured pressing. They rely on midfield control rather than individual brilliance. Their ability to frustrate stronger teams makes them dangerous in group scenarios.
Angola – The Dark Horse of AFCON Group B
Recent Form & Momentum
Angola come into the tournament with confidence after winning the COSAFA Cup and defeating South Africa convincingly in the final. While inconsistency remains an issue, their attacking output has improved significantly.
Key Players to Watch
- Gelson Dala: A proven goalscorer with movement and intelligence.
- Zito Luvumbo (Cagliari): Direct winger with pace and creativity.
- David Carmo: Defensive leader with European experience.
- Randy Nteka (Rayo Vallecano): Adds physicality and finishing power.
Tactical Identity
Angola play proactive football with width and quick combinations. Defensive lapses can appear under pressure, but their attacking intent allows them to challenge stronger sides.
Zimbabwe – Underdogs with Experience and Fight
Recent Form & Momentum
Zimbabwe struggle for consistency, reflected in recent losses during World Cup qualifiers. However, draws against Nigeria and South Africa show they can compete when organized.
Key Players to Watch
- Knowledge Musona: Veteran leader with creativity and composure.
- Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town): Provides steel and experience in midfield.
- Teenage Hadebe: Organizes the back line with physical authority.
Tactical Identity
Zimbabwe focus on deep defending and counter-attacks. They aim to stay compact and capitalize on set-pieces or opposition errors. Upsets remain possible if opponents underestimate them.
AFCON Group B – Match-by-Match Predictions
Matchday 1
Egypt vs Zimbabwe
Egypt’s attacking quality should dominate possession. Zimbabwe will defend deep, but sustained pressure will break them down.
Prediction: Egypt 2–0 Zimbabwe
South Africa vs Angola
A tight contest. South Africa’s structure meets Angola’s attacking ambition. Angola’s recent confidence gives them an edge.
Prediction: South Africa 1–1 Angola
Matchday 2
Egypt vs South Africa
This will be the group’s tactical highlight. Egypt’s individual brilliance should make the difference in a low-scoring game.
Prediction: Egypt 1–0 South Africa
Angola vs Zimbabwe
Angola’s attacking depth should overwhelm Zimbabwe if they control midfield.
Prediction: Angola 2–0 Zimbabwe
Matchday 3
Angola vs Egypt
Egypt may rotate slightly, but their experience should still secure a result. Angola will compete strongly.
Prediction: Angola 1–1 Egypt
Zimbabwe vs South Africa
South Africa’s discipline and pressing should limit Zimbabwe’s chances.
Prediction: Zimbabwe 0–1 South Africa
Predicted AFCON Group B Final Standings
- Egypt – 7 points
- Angola – 5 points
- South Africa – 4 points
- Zimbabwe – 0 points
Who Will Lead AFCON Group B?
Egypt are expected to top AFCON Group B due to superior squad depth, tournament experience, and world-class players like Mohamed Salah. South Africa should follow closely, while Angola remain strong contenders qualification spots.
Final Verdict
AFCON Group B offers a fascinating blend of experience, discipline, and emerging talent. Egypt remain the benchmark, but South Africa and Angola are capable of pushing them to the limit. Every match will demand tactical clarity and mental strength.
This group may not produce the highest scorelines, but it will deliver some of the tournament’s most competitive football.
