Aliou Cissé begins European scouting mission to boost Angola’s national team options

Angola head coach Aliou Cissé has embarked on a European scouting mission as part of efforts to identify and engage players from the Angolan diaspora who could strengthen the Palancas Negras ahead of future international competitions.

The Senegalese tactician, who was appointed to lead Angola’s national team, is travelling across several European countries to meet with players eligible to represent Angola and assess their potential contribution to the national setup.

Cissé is being accompanied on the mission by the vice-president of the Angolan Football Federation (FAF), with the duo expected to visit multiple destinations as they seek to expand the pool of available talent for the national team.

The move forms part of the coach’s broader strategy to build a competitive Angola side by combining homegrown talent with quality players based abroad who have links to the country.

Having previously guided Senegal to major success, including winning the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations title, Cissé brings extensive experience at international level and is now focused on laying the foundations for Angola’s continued growth on the continental stage.

The Palancas Negras have been working to improve their competitiveness in African football, and the recruitment of diaspora players is expected to play a key role in Cissé’s plans as he prepares the team for upcoming challenges.