softfootball.com match preview
Angola will aim to continue their perfect start in Group F of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers as they host Niger at the Estadio 11 de Novembro on Friday. With two wins from two games, the Angolans are on a hot streak, while Niger is still searching for their first victory in the group.
Match Preview
Angola has been on a brilliant run in recent months, boasting a 10-match unbeaten streak. Their last outing was a 2-1 win over Sudan in September, where goals from Mabululu and Randy Nteka secured three points. This followed an impressive 1-0 win against Ghana, where they ended the Black Stars’ long unbeaten run on home soil with a stoppage-time goal from Felicio Milson.
Under head coach Pedro Goncalves, Angola has flourished, winning their last six matches across all competitions, including lifting the COSAFA Cup in July. They are favorites to top Group F and secure a comfortable spot at AFCON 2025.
Niger, on the other hand, has endured a difficult qualifying campaign so far. A 1-1 draw against Ghana in September, where Oumar Sako’s late goal salvaged a point, followed a disappointing 1-0 loss to Sudan in their opening game. Niger has been struggling, failing to win any of their last 11 AFCON qualifiers, a run dating back to 2020.
Despite their struggles, Niger will take heart from their resilient performance against Ghana, but their task against an in-form Angola side will be a tough one.
Team News
For Angola, star forward Gelson Dala, who has scored 20 goals in 48 caps, will lead the line. Zito Luvumbo, Jonathan Buatu, and Milson are also key figures in the squad. Clinton Mata has withdrawn from the squad due to injury, and Casa Pia’s Ricardo Batista could make his debut in goal.
Niger’s squad features regulars like Oumar Sako, who scored against Ghana, and Kryvbas striker Daniel Sosah, who will be relied upon for goals. Head coach Zaki Badou has named a familiar lineup, with Najeeb Yakubu and captain Youssouf Oumarou expected to play crucial roles.
Predicted Lineups
Angola:
Nebulu; Bastos, Gaspar, Carmo, Buatu; Milson, Fredy, Show; Dala, Mabululu, Luvumbo
Niger:
Hainikoye; Yakubu, Sako, Abdou, Alhassane; Moussa, Diabate, Oumarou; Moutari, Hainikoye, Sosah
Softfootball Prediction
Angola has momentum on their side, with their attacking players in excellent form. While Niger showed some resilience against Ghana, their poor run of results in AFCON qualifiers suggests they will struggle to contain the hosts. Angola is expected to secure a comfortable win at home.
Final score prediction: Angola 2-0 Niger
