Outcomes: Yes / No

Resolution date: After the round of 16 (around mid-January 2026)

Relevance: With their recent 2-1 win over Angola and upcoming high-profile match against Egypt, this taps into national sports excitement during the ongoing tournament.

Resolution criteria

South Africa will advance to the quarterfinals if they finish in the top two of Group B or are among the best four third-placed teams. Group B consists of Egypt, South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe. Resolution will be determined by the official final standings after all group stage matches conclude (around mid-January 2026). Check the official CAF website (https://www.cafonline.com) or major sports outlets for final group standings.

Background

South Africa opened with a 2-1 victory over Angola, while Egypt defeated Zimbabwe 2-1. Both sides arrive with momentum, having secured victories in their opening Group B matches, and a second win would place either firmly on the path toward the knockout rounds. South Africa remain undefeated in their last six matches against Egypt, winning four and drawing two. Their last AFCON meeting in 2019 saw South Africa eliminate hosts Egypt in Cairo, with a 1-0 win in the Round of 16, with Thembinkosi Lorch scoring the game winner.

Considerations

Group B has been regarded as the group of death, given Angola's rise and Zimbabwe's relative revival. South Africa surprised many by finishing third in Côte d'Ivoire and secured World Cup qualification ahead of Nigeria, with the core of the squad made up of locally based players whose cohesion and understanding has become the envy of many national teams.