Bafana Bafana launch their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign this
evening, facing familiar foes Angola at the Stade de Marrakech in a pivotal
Group D opener (Monday, 22 December 2025).
The match marks a significant milestone for head coach Hugo Broos, who will
take charge of his 50th game at the helm. He will be hoping to replicate the
success of the 2023 tournament, where he guided South Africa to a memorable
semi-final finish in Côte d’Ivoire.
Bafana, who warmed up with a 1-0 friendly win over a second-string Ghana
side, face a formidable psychological hurdle. They have failed to defeat
Angola in their last six meetings across all competitions, making this a
test of both skill and history.
Broos has named a strong starting eleven, with captain Ronwen Williams in
goal and Lyle Foster leading the attack. The team will rely on the midfield
engine of Teboho Mokoena and Sipho Mbule to control the tempo and break the
long-standing streak against the Palancas Negras.
Confirmed Lineups:
South Africa: Williams (c); Mudau, Ngezana, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mokoena,
Sithole, Mbule; Appollis, Foster, Nkota.
Subs: Goss, Chaine, Smith, Ndamane, Mbatha, Moremi, Mofokeng, Mokwana,
Aubaas, Kabini, Makgopa, Campell, Matuludi.
Angola: Marques (c); Gaspar, Buatu, Mata; Fredy, Maestro, Show, To Carniero;
Luvumbo, Nzola, Gelson Dala.
