Hugo Broos: “Egypt Are the Team to Beat in Group B of AFCON 2025”

After the draw for the African Cup of Nations resulted in South Africa being placed in Group 2 alongside Egypt, Angola and Zimbabwe, Hugo Broos, the coach of the South African national team, commented on the result, describing Egypt as the strongest team in the group, pointing to its recent renaissance and dominance of the qualifiers.

“When I look at our opponents for AFCON, I think that Egypt is the favorite to win the group,” Broos said. “They have built a very good team over the past year and a half and performed excellently in the qualifiers. They will be the team to beat.”

Broos expressed cautious optimism about South Africa’s chances in the group stage:

“Overall, I think we can be satisfied. It’s not an easy group, but we have a great opportunity to qualify for the next round. And as we know, once you reach the knockout stages, anything is possible. We will do everything to improve on our performance from the last AFCON.”

Broos acknowledged the challenge posed by Zimbabwe, a familiar opponent for South Africa:

“Zimbabwe are our neighbors, and matches against them are always difficult. We’ve faced them multiple times, including in World Cup qualifiers, and have had a mix of results. However, I believe it’s possible to win against them in this tournament.”

The South African coach admitted limited knowledge about Angola, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation:

“Angola is a team I do not know very well. It will be crucial to analyze them carefully and prepare well for that match.”

Egypt has improved since their dismal 2021 AFCON campaign, according to Broos, who lauded their recent play. The Pharaohs are now a strong power in African football after rebuilding their squad and proving themselves in qualifications.

Having secured a bronze medal in the last AFCON, South Africa aims to go further this time. Broos remains confident in his team’s potential to advance and make an impact in the tournament.

The group stage will set the stage for what looks to be a tough AFCON when Bafana Bafana begins their campaign in Morocco on December 22, 2025.