The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 sees two pivotal matches today featuring Zimbabwe against South Africa and Angola facing Egypt, crucial for determining the progression of these teams to the knockout stages.
Match Previews: Zimbabwe vs South Africa
Zimbabwe faces South Africa at the Stade de Marrakech. This encounter is vital as South Africa aims to secure qualification while Zimbabwe hopes for an upset.
Team News
- Zimbabwe Starting XI: Arubi; Galloway, Takwara, Garananga; Fabisch, Antonio, Nakamba, Msendami, Lunga; Dube, Maswanhise.
- South Africa Starting XI: Williams; Mudau, Ngezana, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mokoena, Sithole; Appollis, Mbule, Moremi; Foster.
Key Players to Watch
- Zimbabwe: Marvelous Nakamba, a Premier League player, leads the team. Knowledge Musona is also significant after his recent goal.
- South Africa: Lyle Foster is a dangerous forward, and Teboho Mokoena plays a crucial role in midfield control.
Match Preview: Angola vs Egypt
Simultaneously at Stade d’Agadir, Angola faces Egypt. The Pharaohs have already advanced while Angola seeks to improve their standings.
Team News
- Angola Starting XI: Marques; Modesto, Gaspar, Carmo, Fortuna; Maestro, Mukendi, Fredy; Luvumbo, Mabululu, Banza.
- Egypt Starting XI: Shobeir; Eid, Abdelmaguid, Sobhi, Aboul-Fetouh; Saber, Ismail, Lasheen; Mohsen, Adel, Mohamed.
Key Players to Watch
- Egypt: Mohamed Salah is vital for the team’s attacking strategy. Omar Marmoush and Trezeguet add depth to the attack.
- Angola: Clinton Mata’s defensive skills will be crucial against Egypt’s potent offense. Gelson Dala is also in form, aiming to increase his scoring tally.
Group B Standings and Implications
Group B’s current standings heading into these matches are as follows:
| Position | Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Egypt | 6 | +2 |
| 2nd | South Africa | 3 | 0 |
| 3rd | Angola | 1 | -1 |
| 4th | Zimbabwe | 1 | -1 |
A win for South Africa would secure their advancement, while Zimbabwe still has a chance if they can secure a surprising victory. Angola must win against Egypt and hope for favorable results in the other match.
Viewing Information
Fans can watch both matches today, set to kick off at 4 PM GMT. Broadcasts are available on El-Balad’s channels and streaming services.
These matches promise high stakes and excitement as teams battle for a coveted place in the knockout rounds of AFCON 2025.
