The South African National Team, one of Mexico’s confirmed opponents in the 2026 World Cup, began its participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Angola, a result that allowed them to earn three important points, but which also left clear signs that the team still has aspects to correct.
Bafana Bafana, coached by Hugo Broos, started as favorites against an Angolan team that had left doubts in the African qualifiers for the World Cup. However, the match was much more even than anticipated, forcing South Africa to play their best to secure the victory.
Dominance without forcefulness
For much of the match, South Africa controlled possession of the ball, but struggled to translate that dominance into clear-cut scoring opportunities.
The lack of offensive depth was evident, to the point that both teams finished with 10 total shots and four shots on goal, reflecting a balanced game.
The first South African goal came in the 21st minute after a fortuitous play, the result of several bounces inside the box.
Even so, Orlando Pirates winger Oswin Appollis’ individual action and finishing were of the highest quality to open the scoring at the Marrakech stadium.
Immediate response from Angola
The Angolan reaction was not long in coming.
In the 35th minute, Manuel Show took advantage of a precise cross from a free kick taken by Fredy, heading in to level the score.
The draw confirmed that Angola was not willing to take a passive role and that South Africa would have to raise its game.
In the second half, the match continued in the same vein:
South Africa with the initiative and Angola betting on defensive order and counterattacks, without taking too many risks and settling for a draw at times.
The Bafana Bafana were the favorites
QuéOnnda.com
Lyle Foster makes the difference
Just when the game seemed to be heading for a draw, Lyle Foster came on the scene.
The South African striker pressed the opponent’s exit, stole the ball and finished the play with a powerful shot from outside the area, impossible for goalkeeper Hugo Marques.
The goal not only sealed the game, but also earned Foster the Most Valuable Player award.
With this result, South Africa has three points that give them some peace of mind in the group stage, although their performance leaves doubts for more demanding matches.
In the next matchday, Bafana Bafana will face Egypt, the opponent with which they are shaping up to dispute the top of the group.
For Mexican fans in the United States, this debut offers a clear first reference:
South Africa is competitive but vulnerable, an aspect that the Mexican national team will have to take into account in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
