Angola played to a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Madagascar in the final Group E match of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualification at Estádio Nacional da Tundavala on Thursday.
This evenly contested match confirmed Angola’s berth in the 2023 Afcon finals as runners-up in the group, closely following Ghana’s qualification after their 2-1 victory over the Central African Republic in Kumasi.
In stark contrast, Madagascar concluded their Afcon qualification campaign on a disappointing note, failing to secure a single win throughout the tournament and ultimately finishing fourth in the Group E standings with just three points from six matches.
From the opening minute, the Palancas Negras applied relentless pressure on the Barea’s defense. However, the home side struggled to find the target in the first half, resulting in a scoreless deadlock at halftime.
Recognizing the need for change, Angola’s head coach, Pedro Goncavles, made two crucial substitutions at the start of the second half, introducing experienced attackers Helder Costa and Gelson.
Nevertheless, Madagascar’s resolute defense, anchored by Théodin Ramanjary, held firm until the final whistle, ensuring both teams shared the points after a gritty 0-0 draw.
The draw was enough to secure Angola’s place in the upcoming Afcon finals, where they will join the continent’s top teams in pursuit of glory.
