A moment of brilliance from Burnley striker Lyle Foster secured a vital opening victory for South Africa in their Africa Cup of Nations campaign, as they overcame a spirited Angolan side 2-1 in Marrakesh, Morocco. The late goal ensures Bafana Bafana start Group B on a high, a significant result as they seek to build on their third-place finish in the 2023 tournament.

This victory marks the first time in 21 years that South Africa has won their initial match at the continental finals. The result provides crucial early momentum in a competitive group that also includes continental giants Egypt and a determined Zimbabwean team.

A Tale of Two Halves

South Africa began the match impressively, controlling the early stages. Their dominance paid off in the 21st minute when Oswin Appollis found the net with a composed low shot after a cross from Khuliso Mudau. However, Angola, quarter-finalists at the previous AFCON, fought back strongly. Their persistence was rewarded 10 minutes before halftime when midfielder 'Show' cleverly flicked in a free-kick from captain Fredy to level the score.

The second half saw a more determined South African side. They thought they had retaken the lead early on through substitute Tshepang Moremi, but his goal was disallowed for offside by VAR. Bafana Bafana continued to press, even rattling the crossbar with a long-range effort from Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

Foster's Decisive Moment

Just when a draw seemed likely, Lyle Foster, who had earlier missed a clear chance, produced the winning goal in the 79th minute. Receiving the ball at the edge of the penalty area, he curled a superb strike into the top corner, leaving Angola's goalkeeper Hugo Marques with no chance. The goal, Foster's fourth in six matches, atoned for his earlier miss and sealed the three points for his nation.

The win places South Africa in a strong position in Group B. Key upcoming fixtures for the group include:

• South Africa vs. Egypt on Friday, 26 December.
• Angola vs. Zimbabwe on Friday, 26 December.
• Zimbabwe vs. South Africa on Monday, 29 December.
• Angola vs. Egypt on Monday, 29 December.

Looking ahead, South Africa's coach Hugo Broos noted the importance of their second-half adjustments. "We got some things right during halftime... We were also more aggressive. We put more pressure on the opponent," he remarked, highlighting the impact of substitute Moremi. The team now travels to Agadir for a crucial clash against record seven-time champions, Egypt.