Angola head coach Patrice Beaumelle insists his outfit are capable of defeating Egypt in their final group game at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Pharaohs takes on the Palancas Negras on Monday in a high-stake Group B clash.
Angola enter the match under pressure after securing just one point from their opening two games, drawing with Zimbabwe and losing to South Africa.
Beaumelle admitted disappointment with the results but said his team have no alternative but to push for victory against the strongest side in the group.
Despite acknowledging Egypt quality, Beaumelle stressed his side is capable to beating Egypt to secure a place in the last 16.
“We do not know how Egypt will prepare for the match. They may choose to rest some players, but Egypt will still be strong,” he said.
The Angola coach highlighted the quality and experience across Egypt’s squad, noting that many players compete for leading clubs in Europe and domestically.
“All Egypt’s players represent strong teams, whether in Europe or in Egypt, such as Al Ahly, Zamalek, and Pyramids. For me, there is no stronger or weaker player,” he said.
“Egypt are capable of forming two different teams. Whatever the line-up tomorrow, it will be a strong one,” he added.
Turning to his own side, Beaumelle said Angola must believe in their ability to win despite the challenge.
“Angola also have a good team. We can win, but first we must believe in ourselves. If we want to continue our journey, it does not matter who we face. We must concentrate on ourselves and play our football,” Beaumelle added.
“We were disappointed with our results in the first two matches. Now we face Egypt, the strongest team in the group, and we must win. It is a difficult challenge, but I believe we have the team capable of doing so,” he said.
