Angola Frustrate Pharaohs in Agadir Stalemate

Angola on the Front Foot but No Breakthrough

Angola and Egypt played out a tense, physical 0-0 draw at the Stade d’Agadir as the Africa Cup of Nations group stage continued to deliver finely balanced contests. While the scoreboard remained untouched, the match was far from lacking intensity, with Angola finishing the night as the more proactive side.

From the opening minutes, Egypt looked to control the tempo through possession, but Angola disrupted their rhythm with aggression and direct running. The Palancas Negras carved out the first clear chance in the 11th minute when Kialonda Gaspar met a low cross in the box, only to fire wide.

Egypt responded briefly through Mostafa Mohamed, whose acrobatic overhead kick caused momentary chaos, but Angola soon regained control and confidence.

Fredy Leads Angola’s Charge

As the first half progressed, Angola increasingly dictated proceedings. Chico Banza spurned a promising opportunity from distance before Fredy announced himself as the game’s central figure. The experienced midfielder forced a stunning save from Egyptian goalkeeper Shobeir with a powerful long-range strike just before the break.

Angola went into half-time on top, having outworked and outmuscled their opponents, but still searching for a decisive touch.

Second-Half Pressure, Same Result

Egypt made changes after the interval in an attempt to swing momentum, yet Angola remained the sharper side. Fredy struck the woodwork with a curling free-kick in the 53rd minute, while Mabululu and Modesto continued to stretch Egypt’s defensive line.

The closest moment of the match arrived ten minutes from time when substitute M’Bala Nzola found space inside the box, only to see his effort skim the outside of the post. Despite sustained pressure, Angola were unable to find the goal their performance deserved.

Egypt Hold Firm as Angola Left Wondering

Egypt, largely second-best in open play, defended with discipline and organisation, absorbing late pressure and seeing out stoppage time to secure a valuable point. The Pharaohs left satisfied with their resilience, while Angola were left to reflect on missed opportunities.

The draw keeps both sides in contention as the group stage approaches its decisive phase, though Angola may feel this was a chance that slipped through their fingers.