Australia vs Afghanistan Live Score, ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Crucial showdown in Lahore, winner secures qualification

Australia vs Afghanistan Live Score, ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Winner-Takes-All Clash in Lahore

The ICC Champions Trophy has taken its time to ignite, but the tournament is finally heating up in its long-awaited return after eight years. While no one enjoys a rain-affected match, Australia’s abandoned fixture against South Africa has created an intriguing scenario in Group B. Afghanistan’s historic victory over England in their previous game has turned today’s contest into a straightforward knockout battle: the winner advances to the semifinals, while the loser is almost certainly eliminated.

Both teams enter with a clear objective—win at all costs. This is a mindset deeply ingrained in the Australian squad, known for their resilience in high-stakes encounters, even if injuries have left their bowling attack a bit depleted. Missing out on valuable game time against South Africa was far from ideal, as it would have been a tougher test than England. However, the Aussies have a history of rising to the occasion when it matters most, and there’s no doubt they’ll be up for the fight.

Afghanistan, meanwhile, embrace the underdog tag, but that doesn’t diminish their quality or the threat they pose across all aspects of the game. Their thrilling final-over victory against England was a landmark moment in Afghanistan’s cricketing history, showcasing their ability to deliver under pressure. In their debut Champions Trophy campaign, they produced a remarkable all-round performance to keep their hopes alive, proving they belong at this level.

Ibrahim Zadran’s magnificent 177-run knock was the standout performance of the tournament so far, carrying Afghanistan’s batting on his shoulders. However, their true strength lies in their bowling attack, which offers variety, skill, and growing tactical awareness. This match also presents a chance for redemption—Afghanistan were on the brink of victory against Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup before Glenn Maxwell’s unforgettable innings turned the game around. They will be eager to ensure history doesn’t repeat itself.

For Australia, the pressure of being favorites looms large. While they pulled off another stunning chase against England, led by Josh Inglis and Alex Carey, they are up against an Afghan side that will provide a far sterner challenge. Australia’s batting lineup remains formidable, packed with power and experience, but their bowling department remains a concern. Though they have the depth to edge past Afghanistan, the matchup is much closer than they would prefer.

It’s a tough game to predict with certainty—Afghanistan have already proved they can cause major upsets, and Australia are still shaking off some rust. With everything on the line, expect an intense battle, high drama, and a contest worthy of its knockout stakes.