South Africa opened their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign with a narrow 2–1 victory against Angola, claiming all three points in a competitive Group B encounter.
The match was evenly balanced for long spells, but South Africa showed greater composure in key moments to edge past a determined Angolan side.
Early Pressure Pays Off
Bafana Bafana started on the front foot, pressing high and moving the ball quickly. Their positive approach paid off in the 21st minute, when Oswin Appollis finished off a well-worked attacking move to give South Africa the lead.
The goal settled South Africa into the game, but Angola responded with confidence rather than caution.
Angola Hit Back Before the Break
Angola grew into the contest and were rewarded in the 35th minute. After sustained pressure, Show found space inside the box and calmly converted to bring the scores level.
The equaliser shifted momentum, and both teams went into halftime locked at 1–1, with little to separate them.
Late Winner Seals It for Bafana Bafana
The second half was tense and tactical, with chances at both ends. As the game edged toward a draw, South Africa found the breakthrough they needed.
In the 79th minute, Bafana Bafana struck the decisive goal, restoring their lead and sending their supporters into celebration. From that point on, South Africa managed the game smartly, limiting Angola’s chances and seeing out the result.
Final Score
South Africa 2–1 Angola