Late winner, big smile: South Africa edge Angola in AFCON Group B

Match Snapshot

South Africa, led by Burnley forward Lyle Foster, earned a valuable 2-1 victory over Angola on Monday at Marrakech's Grand Stadium, opening Group B of the Africa Cup of Nations finals. Foster assisted Oswin Abolis for the opener and then fired the late winner, energizing a buoyant South African bench.

Angola leveled through Sho, who finished from close range after a sideline free-kick by Freddie in the 35th minute.

Key Moments

Moments later, substitute Chiban Morimi put South Africa ahead with a powerful strike from the edge of the area, but the goal was ruled offside in the 51st.

Angola came close again when Mbokazi struck from outside the box, but hit the post, denying a late equalizer in the 58th.

South Africa pressed for a winner and finally found it as Foster struck with his right foot from outside the area in the 79th minute, after a Morimi pass.

South Africa dominated most of the game, crafting more chances and proving clinical in front of goal, while Angola hit back in bursts but could not break through the defense or the woodwork. It was a match of late twists and tight margins.

Egypt will later meet Zimbabwe in the same group.

South Africa's victory keeps the group lively as the competition moves forward.

Punchline: If this match were a test, Foster just handed South Africa an A+ with extra credit.

Punchline: Angola tried to crash the party, but SA brought confetti and a late winner.