Bafana Bafana claim crucial AFCON opening win over Angola

Bafana Bafana claim crucial AFCON opening win over Angola

Bafana Bafana celebrate triumphant opening match against Angola in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Zuko Komisa

South Africa have kick-started their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a vital 2–1 victory over Angola, marking the first time the national team has won its opening match at the tournament in 21 years.

The breakthrough came via Oswin Appollis in the first half, before Premier League striker Lyle Foster secured the three points with a clinical late winner.

And here is our second goal, that beauty from Lyle!!!

📹 courtesy of @SABC_Sport #BafanaPride pic.twitter.com/3aNRq8dJ6K

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) December 22, 2025

Here is our opening strike against Angola tonight.

📹 courtesy of @SABC_Sport #BafanaPride pic.twitter.com/g5i9ZgA3ky

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) December 22, 2025

The performance has drawn high praise from the South African government, which issued a statement on Tuesday commending the squad’s “resilience and fighting spirit.”

Under the guidance of head coach Hugo Broos and assistant Helman Mkhalele, the win places Bafana Bafana in a strong position within Group B.

The team now turns its attention to a high-stakes encounter against Egypt this Friday, before concluding the group stage against Zimbabwe on Monday, 29 December 2025.

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