Angola-Namibia : Palancas Negras Sails Through

Angola defied the odds to get into the quarterfinals of the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a resounding 3-0 victory over Namibia on Saturday January 27, 2024 at the Stade de la paix of Bouake. In a dramatic encounter, striker Jacinto Dala emerged as the hero, bagging a brace to send the Palancas Negras soaring into the last eight for the first time in 14 years.
The stage was set for a thrilling encounter right from the outset. Despite facing an early setback when goalkeeper Neblu received a straight red card for handling outside the box at about the 17h minute of play, Angola showed remarkable resilience and composure. Namibia's hopes were equally dashed when defender Lubeni Haukongo was sent off for a second yellow card right before halftime. It was now 10 against 10. 
Undeterred by the numerical deficit, Angola's attacking prowess shone through. Jacinto Dala tapped home the opener in the 39th minute. Just few minutes later, Dala was on the scoresheet again, heading home a magnificent free-kick leaving Namibia gasping for air.
The second half saw Angola continue their dominance. Substitute Mabululu put the icing on the cake with a perfect finish at the 72nd minute.
This triumph marks a pivotal moment for Angolan football. Not only have they reached the AFCON quarterfinals for the first time since their quarterfinals run in 2008, ...