Angola head coach Pedro Gonçalves has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to overcome Ghana in their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier. The two sides are set to clash on Thursday, September 5, in Kumasi, in what will be the opening match of the Group E qualifiers.
Speaking to the press ahead of the encounter, Gonçalves acknowledged Ghana’s improvement under their head coach Otto Addo but emphasized that Angola has also grown stronger in recent years.
He believes his side is more than capable of securing a victory against the four-time AFCON champions.
“Otto Addo has certainly brought more flexibility to Ghana’s game,” said Gonçalves on Wednesday.
“They can switch between a five-man defense and a more traditional back four, which makes them a more adaptable and resilient side.”
Despite recognizing the strides Ghana has made, Gonçalves was quick to assert his belief in his own squad’s progress.
“Ghana is definitely stronger now, but we are also much stronger,” he added.
This will be Gonçalves’ third encounter with Ghana over the past two years.
In their last two meetings, while Chris Hughton was at the helm of the Black Stars, Angola managed to secure a draw in one game but suffered a loss in the other.
Gonçalves will be hoping to turn the tide in Thursday’s match, which he sees as a significant opportunity to demonstrate Angola’s upward trajectory.
Under Addo’s leadership, Ghana has been impressive, winning two of their last four games, drawing one, and losing another.
Addo’s tactical flexibility and ability to make adjustments in formation have given the Black Stars an edge in recent matches, but Gonçalves remains unfazed.
Angola, known as the Palancras Negras, will be looking to disrupt the momentum of Ghana, who are aiming to kick off their 2025 AFCON qualification campaign with a win in front of their home crowd.
Gonçalves is optimistic that Angola’s preparations and improvements will make them a tough opponent.
The clash in Kumasi, scheduled for a 16:00 GMT kickoff, promises to be an intense and closely fought affair.
Both teams are eager to start their qualification journeys on a strong note, and the outcome could have a significant impact on how the rest of the group stage unfolds.
As the match approaches, all eyes will be on the tactical battle between Addo and Gonçalves, two coaches who have shown their ability to adapt and innovate.
With Angola determined to make a statement and Ghana looking to capitalize on home advantage, this contest is set to be one of the early highlights of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
