Matchday three of AFCON 2025 continues with four decisive fixtures on Monday, December 29th. Groups A and B reach their conclusion with qualification spots hanging in the balance.
Group B: Egypt Closing In
Egypt vs Angola (16:00 GMT, Agadir)
The Pharaohs are one step away from the knockout stages. With four points from their opening two matches—a dramatic late winner against Zimbabwe courtesy of Mohamed Salah and a controlled 1-0 victory over South Africa—Egypt can seal their progression with a result against Angola.
But the Palancas Negras shouldn't be underestimated. They impressed against South Africa in their opener before securing a creditable 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe. Their defensive organization and counter-attacking threat could trouble Egypt's occasionally vulnerable backline.
Salah, at 32, knows this might be one of his last chances to win the continental trophy that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career. The pressure on his shoulders is immense.
Zimbabwe vs South Africa (16:00 GMT, Marrakech)
A must-win encounter for both sides. Zimbabwe sit bottom with just one point after conceding that late goal to Salah and drawing with Angola. South Africa have three points but looked susceptible against Egypt.
Hugo Broos' Bafana Bafana rely on Percy Tau and Themba Zwane for inspiration. The Warriors will need to contain those two if they're to secure their first win of the tournament.
Group A: Morocco's Home Advantage
Morocco vs Zambia (19:00 GMT, Rabat)
The hosts want to confirm their status as favourites. A convincing 2-0 opening win over Comoros was followed by a frustrating 1-1 draw against Mali—a result that raised questions about Morocco's cutting edge.
Achraf Hakimi continues to be the Atlas Lions' most influential player, but the attacking combinations involving Hakim Ziyech and Sofiane Boufal haven't quite clicked. Walid Regragui needs his stars to deliver in front of the home crowd.
Zambia arrive with two draws (1-1 vs Mali, 0-0 vs Comoros) and a clear tactical plan: stay compact, defend deep, and hit on the counter. Fashion Sakala leads this resilient side.
Comoros vs Mali (19:00 GMT, Casablanca)
The Coelacanths are playing for pride and a mathematical miracle. Without points after two matches, Comoros must beat Mali and hope for an unlikely sequence of results elsewhere.
Mali can secure qualification with a draw. The Eagles possess one of the tournament's best midfield trios in Amadou Haidara, Yves Bissouma, and Diadié Samassékou—a combination of industry and technical excellence.
What's at Stake
Today's matches will determine the top two in each group and clarify which third-placed teams can still dream of progression. Egypt and Morocco enter as favourites, but African football has already delivered surprises at this tournament.
Yesterday, Mozambique beat Gabon for their first AFCON victory in 39 years. Nothing is ever certain on this continent.