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AFCON 2025: Lyle Foster’s Late Strike Secures South Africa Win Over Angola; Zambia Secure Dramatic 1-1 draw with Mali

Posted : 22 December 2025

South Africa began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-1 victory over Angola in Marrakesh on Monday, ending a 21-year wait for a win in their opening match of the tournament. Burnley forward Lyle Foster netted the decisive goal in the 79th minute to seal maximum points for Bafana Bafana.

The opening Group B fixture had three clear phases. South Africa started strongly, taking the lead in the 21st minute through Oswin Appollis, who capitalized on a Khuliso Mudau cross to beat veteran goalkeeper Hugo Marques. Angola regained control for the remainder of the first half, and Show equalized in the 35th minute, following a well-placed free-kick that left South Africa’s defense exposed.

The first half also saw tempers flare. Fouls and cautions were issued to both sides, with South Africans Aubrey Modiba and Sphephelo Sithole, and Angolan To Carneiro receiving warnings from the referee. Despite Angola dominating much of the first period, South Africa regrouped effectively at half-time.

In the second half, South Africa emerged as the more attacking side. Substitute Tshepang Moremi thought he had restored the lead early after the break, but the goal was ruled out by VAR for a marginal offside call. Bafana Bafana continued to press, with Mbekezeli Mbokazi testing Marques from long range, the effort rebounding off the crossbar.

A counterattack eventually set up Lyle Foster for the winning goal. Receiving a pass after intercepting Angola’s ball, Foster struck from the edge of the box, leaving Marques with no chance. The goal underscored his growing impact, marking his fourth in six international appearances.

Earlier in Group A action, Zambia secured a dramatic 1-1 draw with Mali. Lassine Sinayoko had given Mali the lead in the 60th minute, but Patson Daka salvaged a point for Zambia with a late equalizer.

South Africa’s victory over Angola provides a morale boost as they aim to advance from Group B, while Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, are currently playing a 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe in Agadir.

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