Four decisive matches await on matchday three of AFCON 2025. With qualification spots on the line, Egypt and Morocco carry the weight of expectation into fixtures that could define their tournament trajectories.
Group B: The Qualification Battle
Egypt vs Angola (16:00 GMT, Agadir)
Egypt sit top of Group B with four points, but their performances have been concerning. Mohamed Salah's stoppage-time winner against Zimbabwe papered over cracks in the opening game. The 1-0 victory over South Africa was more convincing, yet chances created remain below what you'd expect from a side with this much attacking talent.
Angola impressed in their opener against South Africa before holding Zimbabwe to a 1-1 draw. They're compact, well-organised, and dangerous on the counter. Egypt's high defensive line could be exposed if they're not careful.
Key battle: Salah's movement against Angola's disciplined back four. The Liverpool man has been dropping deep to collect possession—whether Angola can prevent him from linking play will determine the outcome.
Zimbabwe vs South Africa (16:00 GMT, Marrakech)
Both sides need a result. Zimbabwe are bottom with one point after conceding a late Salah goal and then drawing with Angola. South Africa, despite their impressive squad, have three points but looked vulnerable against Egypt.
Hugo Broos' side rely heavily on Percy Tau and Themba Zwane for creativity. If Zimbabwe can nullify those two, they have a genuine chance of securing their first win of the tournament.
Group A: Morocco's Coronation?
Morocco vs Zambia (19:00 GMT, Rabat)
The hosts have been solid rather than spectacular. A 2-0 opening win over Comoros was followed by a 1-1 draw against Mali—a result that raised eyebrows given Morocco's pre-tournament favouritism.
Achraf Hakimi has been excellent at right-back, but the attacking combinations haven't quite clicked. Sofiane Boufal and Hakim Ziyech have shown flashes without dominating as expected.
Zambia's strategy is clear: absorb pressure, stay compact, strike on the counter. They held Mali 1-1 and drew 0-0 with Comoros. A point here would be a significant achievement.
Comoros vs Mali (19:00 GMT, Casablanca)
Comoros need a miracle. Zero points from two games and a goal difference of -2 means only a victory—and favourable results elsewhere—keeps them alive.
Mali have been the group's most consistent performers alongside Morocco. Their midfield trio of Amadou Haidara, Yves Bissouma, and Diadié Samassékou provides excellent balance between defensive solidity and progressive passing.
What to Watch For
- Egypt's pressing intensity: Against South Africa, they pressed high and won the ball in dangerous areas. Can they maintain that against Angola's physical midfield?
- Morocco's home advantage: The Rabat crowd has been electric. If Zambia sit deep, will Morocco have the patience to break them down?
- South Africa's set-piece delivery: They've created chances from dead-ball situations. Zimbabwe's aerial defending will be tested.
Prediction
Egypt should secure qualification with a narrow win, while Morocco will likely top Group A despite Zambia's resilience. The Zimbabwe vs South Africa clash is the day's most unpredictable fixture.