Bafana Bafana Could Secure Early Qualification with Result Against Egypt
Bafana Bafana have strengthened their bid to reach the knockout rounds of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 and now face a defining Group B test against Egypt on Friday.
South Africa’s campaign began with a gritty 2–1 win over Angola, where goals from Oswin Appollis and Lyle Foster delivered early momentum for coach Hugo Broos’ youthful but increasingly composed side. With Egypt next on 26 December, followed by neighbours Zimbabwe on 29 December, Bafana are well placed to secure a round-of-16 berth.
What Bafana Need
Win or draw vs Egypt: enough to confirm qualification.
A win would likely seal top spot in Group B.
A draw moves Bafana to four points, a strong platform to advance.
Loss vs Egypt: then at least a draw vs Zimbabwe would be required; two straight defeats could spell elimination.
Finishing first matters. It could mean a kinder last-16 draw, potentially avoiding heavyweights like Morocco, Senegal or Algeria until later rounds.
A Familiar Milestone — With Better Odds This Time
The Angola result was South Africa’s first AFCON opening-game win since 2004. That year, four points still weren’t enough to progress. This time, the expanded tournament format significantly boosts the chances, making any positive return from the remaining fixtures likely to see Bafana through. South Africa last exited at the group stage in 2015.
Egypt Plot Changes After Narrow Zimbabwe Escape
Egypt arrive after a late 2–1 comeback win over Zimbabwe, a match that exposed vulnerabilities despite their status as seven-time AFCON champions. The Pharaohs trailed to Prince Dube’s 20th-minute strike before pressure told: Omar Marmoush levelled on 64 minutes and captain Mohamed Salah clinched it in stoppage time (91’).
According to reports from El Watan Sports, head coach Hossam Hassan has decided on two changes for the showdown with Bafana:
Defence: Zamalek’s Hossam Abdelmaguid is set to make way for the experience of Al Ahly centre-back Rami Rabia, as Egypt look to steady a back line troubled by injuries and form issues.
Attack: Mostafa Mohamed is expected to start in place of Emam Ashour, who was withdrawn early in the opener and is still regaining full fitness.
The Verdict
This clash is shaping up as history versus momentum. Egypt’s pedigree and big-game nous meet a South African side growing in belief and balance, keen to channel the spirit of the 1996 champions. With Group B leadership potentially on the line, Friday’s encounter could define the trajectory of both campaigns.