South Africa Beat Angola 2-1 in AFCON 2025 Opener
South Africa began their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Angola in Group B on Monday night.
The match was played in Marrakesh and was evenly contested, with both teams showing good quality and determination. Bafana Bafana, who finished third at the last AFCON, showed character to secure all three points.
Oswin Appollis gave South Africa the lead in the 25th minute with a well-taken goal. However, Angola responded quickly as midfielder Show equalised just ten minutes later, scoring on his 50th international appearance by turning in a corner.
The second half remained competitive, with substitute Tshepang Moremi seeing a goal ruled out for offside after VAR intervention.
South Africa eventually found the winner in the 79th minute through Burnley forward Lyle Foster, who curled a fine shot past Angola goalkeeper Hugo Marques.
Despite late pressure from Angola, South Africa held on to claim their first opening-game win at AFCON in 21 years.
The victory gives Hugo Broos’ side a strong start as they look to go far in the tournament.
