South Africa opened their AFCON 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Angola in Group B, surviving second-half drama to claim three crucial points in Marrakech.

Bafana Bafana took an early lead through Oswin Appollis, who fired home from the centre of the box in the 21st minute following excellent work from Lyle Foster.

However, Angola’s persistent pressure paid dividends when Show equalised from a set-piece in the 35th minute, converting Fredy’s cross to level proceedings.

The first half showcased contrasting styles, with South Africa controlling possession (56.8%) whilst Angola posed the greater attacking threat. Angola registered four shots with three on target compared to Bafana’s solitary effort finding the mark, forcing goalkeeper Ronwen Williams into three crucial saves.

The Palancas Negras recording nine touches in the opposition box compared to South Africa’s seven.

The second half began tentatively before exploding into controversy. Tshepang Moremi thought he had restored South Africa’s lead in the 51st minute, showing excellent composure to jockey past his defender before firing home. However, VAR intervened, ruling Foster offside in the build-up play.

South Africa maintained their attacking intensity, particularly down the flanks, stretching Angola’s defensive shape whilst the visitors remained compact centrally. Angola defended resolutely, cutting out numerous crosses and passing combinations.

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The breakthrough finally arrived in the 79th minute when Foster made amends for his earlier offside transgression. Moremi’s intelligent layback found Foster perfectly positioned, and the striker made no mistake with his finish to secure a 2-1 advantage.

Bafana Bafana’s high pressing game proved effective throughout the second period, though Angola continued threatening through set-pieces and counter-attacks. Foster had spurned an earlier opportunity in the 77th minute, blazing over the crossbar when well-positioned.

Williams’ commanding goalkeeping performance proved decisive, with his sharp reflexes and positioning neutralising Angola’s aerial threat throughout the contest. The victory provides South Africa with the perfect start to their Group B campaign. T