AFCON: Ex-Cape Town City goalkeeper included in South Africa’s Group B opponents’ final squad

Published on by

AFCON: Ex-Cape Town City goalkeeper included in South Africa’s Group B opponents’ final squad

Angola head coach Patrice Beaumelle has confirmed his final 28-man squad for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), setting the stage for a tough Group B showdown against South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Egypt.

The announcement ends weeks of speculation, with Beaumelle making bold calls by leaving out seasoned names such as Bastos, Gilberto, and Andrade, signaling a shift toward a more dynamic and balanced squad.

His ambition? To guide the Palancas Negras beyond the quarter-final stage for the first time in their history.

Hugo Marques Returns to the Big Stage

Among the three goalkeepers named is Hugo Marques, a familiar name to South African fans. Marques spent two successful seasons in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) with Cape Town City, where he quickly established himself as one of the league’s most reliable shot-stoppers.

He played a key role in City’s strong domestic campaigns, earning praise for his reflexes and leadership at the back. Marques left the club in 2023 after deciding to return to Europe for family reasons, but his inclusion in Angola’s AFCON squad marks a significant comeback on the continental stage.

Key Names to Watch

Angola’s attacking firepower will be led by Gelson Dala, Zito Luvumbo, Mbala Nzola, Mabululu, and Randy Nteka, a forward line packed with experience and creativity.

In midfield, Show, Fredy, Maestro, and Beni Mukendi will provide stability and flair, while the defense boasts seasoned campaigners like Clinton Mata, David Carmo, Núrio Fortuna, and Buatu. Goalkeeping duties will be contested by Neblú, Hugo Marques, and Dominique.

Angola’s AFCON 2025 Fixtures in Group B

  • 21 December: Angola vs South Africa (Stade de Marrakech)
  • 26 December: Angola vs Zimbabwe
  • 29 December: Angola vs Egypt

These matches will be crucial as Angola aim to upset the odds in a group featuring tournament favorites Egypt and a resurgent Bafana Bafana.

Preparation and Ambition

Angola warmed up with a 10-day camp in Portugal and friendlies against DR Congo and Mozambique, followed by additional tune-up games in Morocco. With momentum from their quarter-final run in 2023, Beaumelle’s refreshed squad is determined to make history.

Angola have never won AFCON, with their best finishes being quarter-final appearances in 2008, 2010, and 2023. This time, they’re targeting a breakthrough.

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

Author

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.

You May Also Like