Angola head coach Pedro Gonçalves has unveiled his 26-man squad for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024), which runs from 2 to 28 August 2025.
Three of those selected—goalkeeper Emanuel Nsesani, midfielder Diogenes, and striker Victorino Polaco—have been named as reserves and may not see action during the tournament.
Goalkeepers (3):
- Neblu
- Agostinho Calunga
- Jorge Rui
Defenders (8):
- Anderson Cruz
- Hossi
- Eddie Afonso
- Kinito
- Vidinho
- Lito
- Lulas
- Mabelé
Midfielders (6):
- Mafuta
- Aguinaldo
- Além
- Luís Eusébio
- Beni
- Megue
Forwards (6):
- Gibelé
- Fernando
- Kaporal
- Jó Paciência
- Lépua
- Vanilson
Reserves (3):
- Emanuel Nsesani (GK)
- Diogenes (MF)
- Victorino Polaco (FW)
Angola will compete in Group A, alongside Morocco, Kenya, the DR Congo, and Zambia. Their tournament opener is scheduled against fellow North Africans Morocco on Sunday, 3 August 2025, at 15:00 GMT.
Coach Pedro Gonçalves highlighted the strategic inclusion of backups on the roster, recognising the unpredictability and physical toll of international tournaments.
While they remain part of the squad, reserve players may be used sparingly unless injuries or suspensions necessitate their inclusion.
The squad reflects a deliberate blend of experience and youth across all lines. In defence, the inclusion of players like Eddie Afonso and Hossi suggests a focus on building a robust back line capable of handling continental pressure.
The midfield group, featuring names such as Mafuta and Beni, combines midfield industry with playmaking ability—a balance essential for tournament progression.
Up front, Angola will look to its strike force to make the difference, especially Jó Paciência, who has earned a reputation at his club, Bravos do Maquis, for his sharp goal-scoring instincts.
The attacking unit will aim to supply decisive moments in tightly contested matches, beginning with the clash against Morocco.
Angola’s CHAN campaign arrives at a pivotal moment, offering players from domestic leagues a platform to showcase their talents on a continental stage.
The competition features national teams composed solely of players active in their home leagues, emphasising the depth of talent within local structures.
Group A presents a significant challenge. The DR Congo and Zambia bring physicality and pace, while Kenya and Morocco offer tactical discipline and technical quality.
Opening the tournament against Morocco will be a stern test for Gonçalves’ squad, whose preparations are believed to include intensive training camps and friendly matches to fine-tune their strategy.
In announcing the roster, coach Gonçalves stressed unity and adaptability as key themes. “Each player selected has a role to play,” he noted. “We must remain flexible, competitive, and ready to seize every opportunity.”
The inclusion of three reserves reflects forward planning to manage fatigue and maintain squad balance across the month-long competition. With fixtures likely to come in quick succession, the ability to rotate and preserve energy levels will be essential.
As 3 August approaches, Angola supporters will watch closely, hopeful that this carefully-selected squad can navigate one of Africa’s most prestigious tournaments.
With promising talent combined with strategic balance, the Angolan side is poised to challenge effectively in Group A and beyond.
