Champions Trophy 2025: What is Afghanistan semifinal qualification scenario after beating England in Group B?

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Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan Semifinal Qualification Scenario: Afghanistan kept their semifinal hopes alive with a thrilling eight-run victory over England in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The win not only eliminated England from the tournament but also set up a virtual quarter-final against Australia. With Group B finely poised, Afghanistan still has a chance to qualify, but their fate will depend on multiple factors, including net run rate (NRR).

Afghanistan’s Road to Semifinals

Following their victory, Afghanistan now has two points from two matches, sitting third in Group B behind South Africa and Australia, who each have three points. England, with two defeats, is out of contention. The top two teams from each group qualify for the semifinals, making Afghanistan’s final group-stage match against Australia on February 28 a must-win encounter.

Possible Ways for Afghanistan to Qualify for Semifinals

1. Afghanistan beat Australia convincingly

• If Afghanistan defeat Australia and improves its NRR beyond Australia’s, they will qualify as the second team from Group B, provided South Africa also wins against England.
• Afghanistan currently have an NRR of -0.990, while Australia sits at +0.475. A big win will be crucial in surpassing Australia on NRR.

2. Afghanistan beat Australia & South Africa lose to England

• If Afghanistan win and South Africa lose to England, both Afghanistan and South Africa will have four points.
• In this case, the second semifinal spot will be decided based on NRR.
• Given South Africa’s strong NRR (+2.140), Afghanistan will need a massive victory against Australia and hope for a heavy South African defeat.

3. Afghanistan lose to Australia – OUT

• If Afghanistan lose, they will remain on two points and be eliminated, as both Australia and South Africa would finish with more points.

Also read: Champions Trophy 2025 Points Table Updated after AFG beat ENG - Group A and Group B: Afghanistan knock out England while keeping their semifinal hopes alive

Group B Standings & Remaining Matches

Current Points Table (Group B as of Feb 26)

Remaining Fixtures in Group B

With the race heating up, Afghanistan will need to bring their best performance against Australia to keep their Champions Trophy dream alive.