South Africa’s AFCON Hopes Begin with Mokoena, Appollis and Williams vs Angola
Bafana Bafana kick off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign on Monday evening with a high-stakes Group B clash against Angola at the Stade de Marrakech, knowing that a winning start could shape their entire tournament.
Drawn alongside Egypt and Zimbabwe, South Africa cannot afford a slow beginning. Head coach Hugo Broos understands better than most that momentum is priceless at AFCON, and his side will look to lay down an early marker against an Angolan team that arrives with growing confidence.
Much of Bafana’s hopes rest on three key figures who could define whether the campaign begins with belief or pressure.
Teboho Mokoena
Mokoena remains the heartbeat of this South African side. The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder brings control, composure and relentless work rate in the middle of the park, linking defence and attack with intelligence. Against an Angola team that thrives on organisation and counter-attacks, Mokoena’s ability to dictate tempo and manage transitions will be vital. A strong opening performance from him could allow Bafana to settle quickly and impose their rhythm.
Oswin Appollis
Appollis arrives in Morocco in fine form and carries genuine attacking threat. Comfortable on the left flank but versatile enough to drift inside, the 24-year-old has become one of Bafana’s most dangerous outlets. His direct running and eye for goal offer South Africa a cutting edge in tight matches — exactly the kind of quality needed in a tournament opener where margins are slim.
Ronwen Williams
As captain and last line of defence, Williams’ influence stretches far beyond shot-stopping. He was central to South Africa’s bronze-medal run at the last AFCON, and his leadership will again be crucial, particularly with a back line that may include younger faces. In cagey opening games, one big save or calm decision can tilt the balance — and Williams has built a reputation for delivering in those moments.
Angola are no strangers to upsetting expectations, having impressed at the previous AFCON with a disciplined, resilient approach. That makes South Africa’s need for an early goal — and early control — even more pressing.
After stumbling in their opening match at the last tournament, Bafana know the cost of a poor start. This time, the message is clear: three points first, confidence next. If Mokoena controls midfield, Appollis provides penetration and Williams anchors the team with authority, South Africa have every chance of opening their AFCON journey with a statement win in Marrakech.
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