Talking points: Bafana break AFCON opening game curse as Angola win signals new belief

Teetering on the brink of despair for just over two decades, Bafana Bafana transformed years of anxiety and disappointment into triumph — at least for the moment.

Monday night’s win over Angola represents not just a momentary success, but a shift in the trajectory of South African football. This victory restores hope after years of underperformance in high-pressure AFCON opening games.

This crucial result marked a significant turning point in South African football history and was one of the major talking points from the Group B opener in Morocco on Monday evening.

Remember Tunisia 2004

The last time Bafana Bafana won their opening AFCON match was a 2–0 triumph over Benin in 2004, courtesy of a brace from Siyabonga Nomvethe. Since then, South Africa had gone winless in their opening six AFCON fixtures.

On Monday evening in Morocco, that barren run finally ended. With the scores level at one goal apiece, Tshepang Moremi orchestrated a cleverly timed 71st-minute pass to Lyle Foster, positioned just outside the box. Foster unleashed a stunning strike into the right side of the net.

With this crucial win under their belt, coach Hugo Broos and his squad can now approach their upcoming fixtures with renewed confidence and ambition. For many fans, this match carries significance beyond the scoreline — echoing the ghosts of the past while embracing a promising future.

Hugo Broos’ golden 50th match

It was a special night for Hugo Broos and Bafana Bafana, as the Belgian coach marked his 50th match in charge of the national team with a gritty victory over Angola.

Since taking the reins in May 2021, Broos has guided Bafana through a rollercoaster journey, compiling a commendable record of 25 wins, 19 draws and just six defeats. Along the way, he has fostered a strong bond within the squad.

That unity culminated in what many regard as his finest achievement — the bronze medal at the 2024 AFCON, South Africa’s first podium finish since 1996. It was a significant milestone, particularly given that most of the squad were competing in their first AFCON tournament.

Now, attention turns to whether Broos can transform bronze into gold.

The attacking instincts of "TLB"

Chicago Fire-bound central defender Mbekezeli ‘TLB’ Mbokazi showcased his attacking prowess against Angola. He struck the crossbar with a blistering shot from 35 yards that would have found the back of the net had luck been on his side. Angolan goalkeeper Hugo Marques was well beaten by the fierce effort.

The attempt sent a clear message about Mbokazi’s capabilities beyond traditional defensive duties. His performance highlighted not only his versatility, but also his attacking instinct — an increasingly valuable asset in the modern game, where defenders are often integral to offensive strategies.

Foster makes his Marques

After a relatively subdued first half, Burnley striker Lyle Foster rose to the occasion, clinching victory for Bafana Bafana with a decisive match-winning goal.

Late in the contest, his powerful strike zipped past a diving Marques to secure all three points. The Premier League-based forward was a constant threat, challenging defenders early and dropping deep to link play with the midfield.

It was a moment of patience rewarded — Foster waiting for the perfect time to shine.

Moremi, the Buddha-pest

Tshepang Moremi, introduced for Mohau Nkota at the start of the second half, made an immediate impact with his explosive pace on the flanks. His ability to switch sides with Oswin Appollis kept the Angolan defence unsettled.

Shortly after his introduction, Moremi found the back of the net, only for VAR to rule the goal out. Undeterred, he continued to raise his level and went on to provide the perfectly weighted assist for Foster’s winner.

Widely nicknamed “Buddha” — a moniker bestowed by a former coach who admired his ability to bring a touch of magic — Moremi was anything but serene from Angola’s perspective. For them, he proved more pest than peace.