Afghanistan Stuns England to Seal Champions Trophy 2025 Semifinal Spot

Afghanistan stunned England with a thrilling 8-run victory in the 2025 Champions Trophy at Lahore, knocking them out of the tournament. Ibrahim Zadran's sensational 177 off 146 balls, the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, rescued Afghanistan from early trouble at 37/3. His aggressive knock, supported by Azmatullah Omarzai's quickfire 41 off 31, propelled Afghanistan to 325/7.

England's chase, led by Joe Root’s sublime 120, seemed on track despite early setbacks. Phil Salt and Jamie Smith fell cheaply, but Root stabilized the innings alongside Ben Duckett. However, Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi broke partnerships at crucial junctures. Jos Buttler’s sluggish 38 off 42 balls and England's middle-order collapses left them needing 90 off the last 10 overs.

Omarzai turned the match with career-best figures of 5/58, dismissing key players including Buttler and Root, who hobbled off with 39 needed from 25 balls. Jamie Overton and Jofra Archer fought back, but Omarzai sealed the win in the final over by removing Adil Rashid, leaving England 8 runs short.

Earlier, Afghanistan's late acceleration, adding 113 in the last 10 overs, proved decisive. Despite Jofra Archer’s 3/64, England’s bowling lacked control in the death overs. Afghanistan’s historic win marked their second consecutive ICC ODI tournament victory over England, securing a spot in the semifinals.