Angola secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations with a convincing 3-0 victory over Namibia in Bouake, despite both teams finishing the match with 10 players each.
The Black Antelopes, who emerged as winners of Group D, faced an early setback as goalkeeper Neblu received a red card for a handball outside the box in the 17th minute.
Midfielder Estrela then replaced him between the posts.
However, Angola managed to take the lead in the 38th minute with a goal from Gelson Dala.
Namibia, making their debut in the knockout stages after qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams, also suffered a blow when defender Lubeni Haukongo received a second caution and was sent off just before half-time.
Dala added a second goal for Angola just before the break, heading in a cross from Fredy. Al Ittihad forward Mabululu sealed the victory with a third goal in the 66th minute.
Namibia attempted to capitalize on the sending off of Neblu with Bethuel Muzeu attempting to lob the temporary goalkeeper, Estrela.
However, Angola maintained control of the game. Signori Antonio took over in goal, replacing midfielder Estrela.
Dala, who played a crucial role in Angola’s success, reflected on the match, stating, “We knew it would be tough, especially after the red card. But we stuck together and got the goals we needed.”
Namibia’s hopes suffered a further setback when Haukongo received a second caution for a foul on Mabululu, leading to Angola’s second goal. Fredy’s free-kick found Dala, who headed in for his second goal of the match.
In the second half, Namibia’s captain Peter Shalulile had an opportunity, but his shot went over the bar. Angola extended their lead in the 66th minute through Mabululu, who skillfully cut back onto his right foot and curled a shot into the far corner.
Shalulile tried to narrow the gap with a header that narrowly missed the target. In the dying moments of the game, Angola substitute Zito Luvumbo hit the crossbar, but Pedro Goncalves’ side secured their place in the quarter-finals with a commanding performance.
