How Afghanistan’s win over England impacts the Champions Trophy semi-finals race

While India and New Zealand have been confirmed as semi-finalists from Group A, the hunt for a final-four spot in Group B is set to go right down to the wire.

In a must-win contest for both teams, Afghanistan edged out England by eight runs in Lahore. The result means Jos Buttler and co are now officially out of contention for a semi-finals spot.

However, for Afghanistan, a ticket to the final four hasn't been punched yet. They will join Australia and South Africa, who split points after a washout on Tuesday, in a final push for the knockouts.

We take a look at how each of the three teams can confirm a place in the semis:

WATCH: Afghanistan trump England in tense finish | Match Highlights | Champions Trophy 2025

Afghanistan

Despite a win against England, Afghanistan sit third in Group B, lagging behind Australia and South Africa by a point. The Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side are once again at a crossroads with Australia as the two teams prepare for a virtual quarter-final on Friday in Lahore. A win for Afghanistan will be enough to seal a spot in the semi-finals.

Australia

While a win will also confirm Australia's qualification for the semi-finals, having a point in hand over Afghanistan means Steve Smith and co will go through even if the game doesn't take place owing to a washout, as was the case for their fixture against South Africa.

Australia topple records in thrilling win over England:

South Africa

A win against England in their final group-stage fixture will be enough to see the Proteas through.

South Africa can also progress if they lose against England and Australia defeat Afghanistan. However, if England win their final game and Afghanistan beat Australia, then the Proteas will be in a tight NRR contest with the Aussies, depending on their final results.

*Depending on which team has the better Net Run Rate (NRR).