Angola captain, Alfredo Kulembe Ribeiro, known in football circles as Freddy has announced has announced his retirement from the national team, after over 12-years of active service with the Palancas Negras.
The decision comes following his outfit stalemate against Egypt in their final group game at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, being held in Morocco.
Angola struggled at the continental showpiece, failing to secure a single win in the group stages. As it stands, qualification to the knockout phase hangs in the balance for the Palancas Negras after picking just two points from three matches.
After three matches, Angola managed two draws and one defeat, with qualification to the next stage doubtful.
“What do you want me to talk about?” Freddy told reporters after the match, weeping. “This was my last match with the national team. I had hoped to go as far as possible with my country. The dream ended today, I can’t speak.”
Egypt reached seven points at the top of the group, after reaching the round of 16 following their victory in the previous match against South Africa.
Angola earned their second point in the group, awaiting their position in the calculations for the best third-placed teams in all groups.
Since making his debut for Angola in 2014, the enterprising midfielder has made 63 appearances for the national team, scoring three goals as a midfielder.
