Angola Edge Mauritania In Cup Of Nations Thriller

In a captivating Africa Cup of Nations clash, Gelson Dala’s brace propelled Angola to a 3-2 victory over Mauritania on Saturday, putting them in a strong position to advance to the last 16.

Dala opened the scoring for Angola in the 30th minute in Bouake, capitalizing on a loose ball at a corner. His scrappy acrobatic effort bounced over two defenders on the line, giving Angola the lead. Mauritania responded as Sidi Bouna Amar weaved through the Angola defense, producing a precise low finish to level the score.

Dala showcased brilliance once again early in the second half, regaining the lead for Angola with a goal of similar quality. Mauritania’s struggles to clear the ball cost them, with Gilberto winning possession inside the area, and his shot deflected in off center-back Lamine Ba.

Aboubakary Koita’s powerful strike from 20 meters reignited Mauritanian hopes of a comeback, but Angola held on. Neblu, Angola’s goalkeeper, made a crucial save to deny Amar a second goal in the contest.

Angola, coming off a 1-1 draw with Algeria in their opening match, ended a nine-game winless streak at the tournament dating back to 2012. With four points, they now lead Group D, sitting above Burkina Faso on goals scored. A draw against Burkina Faso in their final group fixture on Tuesday in Yamoussoukro will secure Angola’s place in the knockout rounds.

Defending champions Algeria, with two points after consecutive draws, are still in contention. Mauritania, without a win in eight AFCON attempts, must defeat Algeria in Bouake next week to have a chance of progressing as one of the four best third-placed teams.

Reported By AFP