South Africa starts CAN 2025 with 2-1 win over Angola
A thrilling start in Marrakech delivered early excitement, a temporary equalizer, and a late strike securing a win for South Africa in Group B.
Early Threats from Both Sides
The match kicked off at a high tempo at the Stade de Marrakech. Angola threatened early in the 2nd minute when Gelson Dala rose above the defense in the box, but goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made a crucial save.
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South Africa responded quickly, pushing forward. In the 8th minute, Teboho Mokoena tested the Angolan defense with a long-range effort, which was blocked, signaling a tightly contested game.
South Africa Strikes First
After multiple Angolan chances, including a shot from Fredy that was well-stopped by Williams, South Africa made the breakthrough.
In the 20th minute, Oswin Appollis arrived from the second line and struck a powerful shot inside the box, giving South Africa the lead.
Angola Levels Before Half-Time
The goal did not disrupt Angola, who adjusted their defensive structure and balanced the game. Their efforts paid off in the 34th minute when Show capitalized on a free-kick and found the net from the center of the box, making it 1-1.
The score reflected a first half with clear chances at both ends.
Moremi Strikes and VAR Intervenes
South Africa regained the initiative at the start of the second half. In the 50th minute, Tshepang Moremi unleashed a powerful left-footed shot from outside the box that beat goalkeeper Hugo Marques.
However, the goal was reviewed by VAR and ruled out for offside, keeping the score tied.
Foster Seals the South African Win
The match remained open, with South Africa hitting the post in the 57th minute and Mbekezeli Mbokazi testing Marques with a header.
Persistence paid off in the 78th minute. Lyle Foster received the ball outside the box and fired a strong right-footed shot past Hugo Marques, securing the 2-1 victory.
Strong Start in a Competitive Group
With this result, South Africa earns three valuable points in Group B, which also features Egypt and Zimbabwe. The win gives the South Africans confidence as they begin their campaign in what promises to be one of the toughest groups in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
