Angola head coach Patrice Beaumelle has released his final 28-man squad for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, confirming the team that will attempt to deliver the Palancas Negras’ best-ever performance at the continental showpiece.
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The announcement brings an end to weeks of speculation, with Beaumelle opting for a blend of experience, emerging talents and tactical versatility as Angola prepares for a demanding Group B campaign against South Africa, Zimbabwe and Egypt.
Bold Selection Calls as Big Names Miss Out
The French tactician made several notable omissions, with seasoned players such as Bastos, Gilberto and Andrade missing out on the final list. Their exclusion signals Beaumelle’s commitment to a refreshed and dynamic group capable of surpassing Angola’s previous quarter-final achievements in 2008, 2010 and 2023.
Experienced Attack Led by Luvumbo, Dala and Mabululu
The Palancas Negras will bank on their proven attacking firepower, with Zito Luvumbo, Gelson Dala, Mbala Nzola, Manuel Benson and Mabululu among the headline names.
The forwards are expected to play a pivotal role as Angola aim to navigate a group featuring some of the strongest defensive units in the tournament.
In midfield, the likes of Show, Fredy, Maestro and Beni Mukendi will look to provide the balance, creativity and physical presence required to compete at the highest level.
Seasoned Defensive Unit Set for Tough AFCON Battles
Angola’s backline features experienced figures including Clinton Mata, David Carmo, Buatu, Gaspar and Núrio Fortuna.
Their solidity will be essential as the team faces a fast and aggressive South Africa in their opening fixture on 21 December in Marrakesh.
Goalkeepers Neblú, Hugo Marques and Dominique have been named, with the starting spot expected to be contested throughout the final phase of preparations.
Intensive Build-Up Featuring Portugal Camp and Friendlies
Angola staged a 10-day training camp in Portugal from 8–18 December, playing friendly matches against DR Congo and Mozambique. The team will continue their preparation in Morocco with three additional warm-up fixtures before the competition begins.
Upcoming Friendlies in Morocco:
22 December: Angola vs South Africa
26 December: Angola vs Zimbabwe
29 December: Angola vs Egypt
These matches will help Beaumelle refine his tactical approach ahead of a challenging group schedule.
A Tough Group B Test Awaits
Angola kick off their AFCON 2025 campaign on 21 December against South Africa, before facing Zimbabwe on 26 December and Egypt on 29 December.
With renewed confidence after their strong showing in 2023 and a re-energised squad, the Palancas Negras will aim to make history in Morocco.
Angola’s Final 28-Man Squad for AFCON 2025
Goalkeepers: Neblú, Hugo Marques, Dominique
Defenders: Rui Modesto, Eddie Afonso, Tô Carneiro, Núrio Fortuna, Pedro Bondo, David Carmo, Buatu, Gaspar, Clinton Mata
Midfielders: Beni Mukendi, Show, Fredy, Maestro, Kelliano, Mário Balbúrdia
Forwards: Zito Luvumbo, Manuel Benson, Milson, Chico Banza, Gelson Dala, Randy Nteka, Ary Papel, Mabululu, Mbala Nzola, Zine
