AFCON 2025: Angola set for Portugal camp before Bafana Bafana clash

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AFCON 2025: Angola set for Portugal camp before Bafana Bafana clash
Randy Nteka of Angola challenged by Michael Ngadeu of Cameroon during the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match between Angola and Cameroon at Estádio 11 de Novembro in Luanda, Angola on 11 June 2024 ©Ampe Rogerio/BackpagePix - Photo by Icon Sport

Angola, who face South Africa in their opening Group B match at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco later this month, will fine-tune their preparations with two warm-up internationals before the tournament kicks off.

The Palancas Negras will spend 10 days in Portugal from December 8–18, where they have lined up friendlies against DR Congo on December 13 and Mozambique on December 16.

The Angolan Football Federation confirmed that coach Patrice Beaumelle will announce his 28-man squad in the coming days.

Angola meet Bafana Bafana in Marrakesh on December 21, before taking on Zimbabwe on December 26 and Egypt in Agadir three days later. At the last AFCON finals in Ivory Coast, Angola reached the quarterfinals, underlining their pedigree on the continental stage.

Angola’s Preparations and Strengths

The Palancas Negras are leaving nothing to chance. They will spend 10 days in Portugal from December 8–18, sharpening their tactics and fitness levels ahead of the finals. During this camp, Angola will play warm-up matches against DR Congo (December 13) and Mozambique (December 16), giving coach Patrice Beaumelle a chance to fine-tune his squad.

Angola’s recent history at AFCON underlines their pedigree—they reached the quarterfinals in Ivory Coast last time out. Known for their disciplined defensive structure and quick counter-attacks, Angola will look to exploit spaces behind South Africa’s backline. Their physicality and aerial strength make them dangerous on set pieces, while their pace on the break remains a key weapon.

Bafana Bafana’s Approach

South Africa, led by Hugo Broos, will aim to impose their technical style on the game. Bafana Bafana’s midfield balance and wide play could be decisive in unlocking Angola’s compact shape. The team has shown resilience during qualifiers, but converting chances will be critical against an opponent that thrives on frustrating attacks and striking on the counter.

Broos will likely emphasize early control of possession and quick ball circulation to prevent Angola from settling into their defensive rhythm. With Group B also featuring Zimbabwe and Egypt, a positive result in this opener is vital for South Africa’s hopes of advancing.

Key Battle to Watch

The midfield duel will be the heart of this contest. Angola’s physical presence versus South Africa’s technical precision could dictate the flow of the game. Set-piece efficiency and defensive concentration will be crucial, as both teams have shown vulnerability when pressed high.

Kick-off: December 21, Marrakesh
Group B Fixtures:

  • Angola vs South Africa
  • Angola vs Zimbabwe (Dec 26)
  • Angola vs Egypt (Dec 29)
<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.

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