Marrakech – South Africa edged Angola 2-1 in a hard-fought victory in their opening AFCON 2025 match.
The South Africans scored first, though an Oswin Appollis strike in the 25th minute that warmed the rather empty Grand Stade de Marrakech, in Morocco, on Monday, 22 December 2025.
Angola refused to lie down and instead mounted a spirited comeback and were rewarded when Show equalised just before the break.
In the second stanza, Bafana substitute Tshepang Moremi had a goal ruled out for offside, and defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s long-range effort rocked the Angola crossbar.
With time running out, Burnley striker Lyle Foster proved the hero, scoring the winner in the 79th minute.
The victory marks South Africa’s first AFCON opening win in 21 years and gives them a strong start in a competitive Group B that also includes seven-time champions Egypt and Zimbabwe.
After the final whistle, Bafana Coach Hugo Broos praised his team’s character.
“We knew Angola would be tough after their recent win over us, but the players showed great mentality to come back and win,” he said.
Angola, quarter-finalists in 2023, will rue missed chances but remain in contention with matches against Zimbabwe and Egypt ahead.
South Africa next face Zimbabwe, while Angola take on Egypt in the upcoming group fixtures.
The win boosts Bafana’s hopes of advancing deep into the knockout stages in Morocco.
