Can this Bafana Bafana team become champions of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) for the first time since 1996? Finishing third at Afcon 2023 makes Mzansi believe.
For now, where does South Africa rank among the big boys of the continent, such as Morocco, Senegal and Algeria?
THE LATEST CAF NATIONS RANKINGS AS UPDATED SINCE 22 DECEMBER 2025
Looking at the latest rankings, Bafana Bafana continue their rise back to the top. South Africa reached their highest-ever ranking in August 1996. They sat 16th in the world and number one in Africa. The historic rise came just months after lifting the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations trophy on home soil.
CAF Rankings, according to Inside FIFA:
Bafana Bafana slid out of CAF’s top 10 nations into 11th place on FIFA’s latest rankings. Image: Inside FIFA.
HOW ARE CAF RANKINGS FORMED?
The rankings are based on a points system that updates after every international match. Teams gain or lose points depending on the result, the strength of the opponent, and the importance of the match.
Big wins in competitive tournaments carry more weight than friendlies, while losses to lower-ranked teams are punished more heavily.
WHAT DID COACH HUGO BROOS SAY ABOUT SOUTH AFRICA BEING FAVOURITES?
Speaking to the media before the tournamen’t kick off, Broos played down talk of Bafana Bafana being early favourites for Afcon 2025. The Belgian said the host nation holds the early advantage and says the picture will only become clearer after the group stages.
“I will not say to you that South Africa are favourites, for me the favourite team to win the tournament is Morocco because they are a very good team and they are playing at home,” Broos told journalists.
“With regards to the rest of the teams, it is going to be a challenge but we will have to wait and see after the group stages which teams will still be there. Maybe we will change our opinion after that but at the moment, we cannot say Bafana are one of the favourites.”
BAFANA BAFANA’S AFCON 2025 START
AFCON 2025 kicked off with a thrilling 2-1 win over Angola. Hugo Broos’ men showed character and composure after Angola enjoyed unexpected bright spells.
Now all eyes turn to Friday’s clash with Egypt. A win against the Pharaohs will seal a last 16 qualification and maximum belief to go all the way.
South Africa has every reason to dream big. Morocco could be the stage where Bafana Bafana could lift their first AFCON title in 29 years.