CHAN 2024: Angola Announce Final 25-Man Squad to Face Harambee Stars in Group Stage

Kenya, who will meet Angola in their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) match day two encounter, will face a Palancas Negras side that is blending experience and youth with tactical precision.

Angola’s national team departed for South Africa on Thursday, July 24, to begin the final leg of their preparations for the tournament set to kick off next month.

Coach Pedro Gonçalves unveiled his final 25-man squad on Wednesday, following an intense week of trials and drills at the FAF Training Center.

The squad selection reflects the Portuguese tactician’s focus on physical readiness, team cohesion, and tactical refinement ahead of CHAN 2024, which features exclusively home-based players.

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“Call-ups were made based on the players performance in the Girabola and their commitment to the national team,” Gonçalves told Pulse Sports.

“South Africa offers good working conditions and competitive opponents to evaluate the group.”

Leading the squad is veteran goalkeeper Neblu (August 1st), alongside his peers Agostinho Calunga (Petro de Luanda) and Jorge Rui (Sagrada Esperança).

The defensive line combines experience and emerging talent with names like seasoned right-back Eddie Afonso, Anderson Cruz, Hossi, Kinito, Vidinho, and Lulas. Young defender Mabelé also earns a spot after an impressive domestic season.

In midfield, Gonçalves has opted for versatility and creativity with Mafuta, Aguinaldo, Beyond, Luis Eusebio, Beni, and Megue forming a dynamic unit capable of dictating tempo and transitioning quickly.

Up front, the attack features promising forward Gibelé and the experienced Kaporal, supported by Fernando, Job Patience, Lépua, and Vanilson — a group expected to provide goals and movement in the final third.

The reserves include Nsesani, Diogenes, and Polish, who will travel with the team and serve as backups for any potential late changes due to fitness or form.

During their stay in South Africa, Angola will engage in several friendly matches with local clubs and national-level selections to simulate competitive conditions and test various tactical setups.

Goalkeepers:

Neblu (August 1st), Agostinho Calunga (Petro de Luanda), Jorge Rui (Sagrada Esperança)

Defenders:

Anderson Cruz, Hossi, Eddie Afonso, Kinito, Vidinho, Lito, Lulas, Mabelé

Midfielders:

Mafuta, Aguinaldo, Beyond, Luis Eusebio, Beni, Megue

Forwards:

Gibelé, Fernando, Kaporal, Job Patience, Lépua, Vanilson

Reserves:

Nsesani, Diogenes, Polish