From the bronze medal at AFCON 2023 to a renewed sense of discipline, he has instilled belief in Bafana Bafana. His half‑century milestone in charge is more than a statistic, it serves as a rallying point for the squad to deliver victory as a fitting tribute.

At the heart of South Africa’s attacking ambitions are two exceptional attackers. Oswin Appollis brings pace, agility, and direct running, often stretching defences with his sharp movement and ability to exploit spaces behind the backline. 

Alongside him, Lyle Foster adds physical presence and finishing power, capable of holding up play and converting chances in the box. Together with the midfield maestro Thalente Mbatha, they provide Bafana Bafana with a dynamic blend of speed and strength that could trouble Angola’s compact setup. If these forwards together with the midfield find rhythm, South Africa’s attack could flourish and set the tone for their campaign.

Behind them, captain Ronwen Williams provides the calm assurance that has made him a national hero. His penalty‑saving heroics in 2023 are still fresh in memory, and his vocal leadership and shot‑stopping presence will be crucial in keeping Angola’s counter‑attacks at bay.

Angola, however, are no pushovers. They stunned South Africa in the COSAFA Cup earlier this year and arrive with confidence. Gelson Dala’s pace and Fredy’s midfield control make them dangerous on the break, and South Africa must avoid sloppy turnovers to prevent Angola from striking.

With Egypt being the clear favourites in Group B, every point matters. A win against Angola could set South Africa on course for the knockout stages, while a slip‑up would leave them chasing results against tougher opposition. This opener is, in many ways, a must‑win and for Broos, it would be the perfect way to crown his milestone moment.

The game will be played this evening at 19:00 at the Marrakech Stadium, and viewers back home can catch all the action live on SABC and SuperSport.

Written by Mabongi Gazu.