AFCON 2025: Bafana Bafana End 21-Year Opening-Day Drought with Win Over Angola
South Africa finally laid to rest a long-standing Africa Cup of Nations hoodoo as Bafana Bafana opened their AFCON 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Angola in Morocco.
It was a historic night for the South Africans, who had not won their opening match at the AFCON finals since a 2–0 triumph over Benin at the 2004 tournament in Tunisia. Two decades of frustration followed, but that unwanted record is now firmly consigned to history.
Bafana Bafana started with purpose and energy, and their positive approach was rewarded in the 21st minute when Oswin Apollis struck the opening goal. The winger’s effort capped a bright spell from South Africa and gave them a deserved lead.
Angola, however, were far from overawed. The Palancas Negras grew into the contest and found a response just ten minutes before half-time. Show finished calmly to restore parity, ensuring the sides went into the break level at 1–1 after an entertaining first half.
South Africa thought they had regained the advantage shortly after the restart when Tshepang Moremi finished neatly following a swift move. Celebrations were cut short, though, as the goal was ruled out for offside, with Lyle Foster judged to have interfered with play from an offside position.
Both coaches rang the changes as the match entered a decisive phase, but it was South Africa who found the breakthrough. This time Foster made his presence count in the right way, producing a moment of quality with a beautifully placed finish in the 76th minute to put Bafana Bafana back in front.
Angola pushed for another equaliser, but South Africa held firm with a disciplined defensive display to see out the result. The final whistle was met with relief and celebration as Bafana Bafana secured a 2–1 victory to kick-start their AFCON 2025 journey.
For South Africa, it was more than just three points—it was a statement of intent and a symbolic end to a 21-year wait for an opening-game win on Africa’s biggest football stage.