By Our Man In Marakesh
THE ancient walls of Marrakech have seen many battles, but few as pulsating as the one witnessed under the floodlights of the Grand Stade de Marrakech last night.
In a city famed for its heat and high drama, South Africa finally ended 21 years of opening-day hurt, edging past a resilient Angola 2-1 to kick-start their AFCON 2025 campaign in style.
The venue—a stunning, red-earthed fortress sitting in the shadow of the Atlas Mountains—provided a cauldron-like atmosphere.
The Marrakech Stadium, with its unique rectangular design and towering corner pillars, was packed with local Moroccans and traveling supporters who turned the arena into a sea of noise and color.
South Africa took the lead in the 21st minute through Oswin Appollis, who danced through the Angolan defense to slot home.
But the Palancas Negras, clearly inspired by the grand surroundings, fought back. Just before the break, Manuel Luis ‘Show’ silenced the Bafana Bafana faithful, steering home a free-kick to make it 1-1.
The second half was a nervy affair, but the Marrakech turf seems to suit Burnley’s Lyle Foster. With just 11 minutes left on the clock, the Premier League star latched onto a loose ball 20 yards out and unleashed a curling beauty into the top corner.
The goal sparked scenes of pure jubilation in the stands, the roar echoing across the Palmerie palms. It was a performance as polished as a Marrakech souk gemstone, and one that puts Hugo Broos’ men firmly in the driving seat of Group B.
Angola threw everything forward in the dying minutes, but the South African defense held firm on the lush Marrakech grass, securing a victory that felt like a statement of intent in the North African heat.
Bafana Bafana now head to Agadir for their next clash, but they leave the Red City with three points and a performance that suggests they might just be the real deal this winter.
