South Africa start AFCON 2025 campaign with 2-1 win over Angola

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South Africa kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Angola in Marrakech on Monday, thanks to a second-half goal from Burnley forward

The match got off to an early spark when Oswin Appollis put Bafana Bafana ahead in the 21st minute, calmly slotting the ball home from inside the box after a well-worked team move.

Angola, however, fought back and were rewarded just before halftime. Show, who had been a pre-match doubt due to illness, capitalised on a precise left-wing cross from Fredy in the 35th minute to level the score, sending his side into the break on even terms.

The decisive moment came late in the second half. Half-time substitute Tshepang Moremi, who had earlier rattled the crossbar, provided a perfect assist for Foster, who curled a stunning strike from outside the box in the 79th minute to restore South Africa’s lead and secure all three points.

The victory gives South Africa an encouraging start in Group B as they aim to build momentum in the tournament.

Angola will next face Zimbabwe in Marrakech on Friday at 12:30 GMT, while Bafana Bafana take on seven-time champions Egypt in Agadir later the same day at 15:00.

The win also marks a morale-boosting start for South Africa, who reached the semi-finals in the 2023 edition and will be eager to push further in this year’s competition.