Nigeria, Dec. 23 -- South Africa began their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 campaign on a positive note, winning 2-1 against Angola, while Zambia scored deep into stoppage time to force a 1-1 draw against Mali on Monday.

At the Grand Stade de Marrakech, Bafana Bafana made a bright start in their Group B opener. Their early pressure paid off in the 17th minute when Oswin Appollis put South Africa ahead.

The winger reacted quickly to a loose ball in the box, beat two defenders with clever movement and calmly finished past goalkeeper Hugo Marques.

After the goal, South Africa struggled to keep control of the game. Angola grew in confidence, kept more of the ball and caused problems, especially from set-pieces.

Their equaliser...