For the first time in 21 years, South Africa kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign on a winning note, securing a 2-1 victory over Angola in an entertaining Group B encounter in Marrakech on Monday, Bold Sports reports.
After an end-to-end contest in which both sides pushed for victory, Lyle Foster struck late in the second half to secure all three points for Hugo Broos’ side.
South Africa began the game brightly and took a deserved lead in the 21st minute when Oswin Appollis swept a low effort into the bottom corner, beating Angolan goalkeeper Hugo Marques.
Angola responded well, growing into the game as they searched for an equaliser. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was called into action shortly after the opener, producing a fine save to preserve South Africa’s advantage.
More Read
The pressure eventually told in the 35th minute as Angola drew level. Captain Fredy delivered a dangerous free kick into the area, where Show glanced the ball past Williams to make it 1–1.
South Africa thought they had restored their lead early in the second half when substitute Tshepang Moremi scored just five minutes after his introduction, but the effort was ruled out for offside. Moments later, Mbekezeli Mbokazi came agonisingly close, rattling the crossbar with a powerful long-range strike.
With chances coming at both ends, the decisive moment arrived in the 79th minute. A flowing team move from the Bafana Bafana ended with Foster applying a clinical finish to put South Africa back in front at 2–1.
Angola pushed for a second equaliser in the closing stages but were unable to break down a resolute South African defence, as Broos’ men held on to seal victory.
The result sends South Africa top of Group B ahead of their next clash against Egypt on Friday. Angola will look to bounce back when they face Zimbabwe on the same day.
© Bold Sports Media. All rights reserved. If sharing, kindly credit Bold Sports as the source and include a link to the original post. Unauthorised use is prohibited.
