Gelson Dala netted two goals as Angola overcame the early dismissal of goalkeeper Neblu to defeat a 10-man Namibia side, securing their place in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
In the 17th minute, Neblu received a straight red card for handling Bethuel Muzeu’s shot outside the box. However, seven minutes before halftime, Dala scored with a tap-in to give Angola the lead.
Shortly after, Namibia’s Lubeni Haukongo was also shown a red card for a second bookable offense. Two minutes later, Dala extended Angola’s lead with a powerful header from Fredy’s free-kick.
A well-executed finish by Mabululu in the middle of the second half, following a swift counter-attack, sealed the victory and propelled the Palancas Negras into the quarter-finals for the first time since 2010.
Angola is set to face the winners of the last 16 match between Nigeria and Cameroon later on Saturday (20:00 GMT) in the upcoming round on Friday in Abidjan.
Angola through despite Neblu’s moment of madness
Neblu had previously received a yellow card for handling a through ball outside his area in Angola’s group-stage victory over Burkina Faso. However, referee Dahane Beida had no alternative but to issue a red card to the 30-year-old in Bouake.
A defensive error by Kialonda Gaspar provided Muzeu with an opportunity on goal, prompting Neblu to charge out in an attempt to thwart the forward’s chip.
Replacement goalkeeper Antonio Dominique was immediately called into action, successfully saving Deon Hotto’s free-kick. However, Namibia suffered another setback as Prins Tjiueza, one of their standout performers in the tournament, was forced off due to injury.
Angola took command of the game, with captain Fredy playing a pivotal role in all three goals. Fredy set up the opening goal by intercepting a clever through ball from Gilberto and providing a square pass for Dala to tap in.
The challenges for the Brave Warriors continued as Haukongo, who had been booked early on for handball, received his second yellow card for tripping Mabululu.
Fredy’s precise delivery then enabled Dala to head home, securing his fourth goal of the tournament and marking the captain’s third assist at the finals.
Early in the second half, Peter Shalulile had an opportunity to narrow the deficit when poor defending from Gaspar provided him with a promising chance. However, the Namibia captain’s shot soared high and over the goal.
Fredy continued to play a crucial role as Angola extended their lead to 3-0. His impressive 40-yard pass located Dala in open space on the left. Dala, who had already scored, now turned provider, releasing Mabululu.
The striker curled in a composed finish, beating Namibia goalkeeper Lloyd Kazapua and finding the back of the net off the right-hand upright for his third goal in the finals.
Even with a comfortable lead, Angola displayed no intention of sitting back. Kazapua made a solid save in the 72nd minute, denying Angola a fourth goal as he stopped Jonathan Buatu’s header following a corner.
In stoppage time, substitute Zito Luvumbo unleashed a long-range effort that rattled the crossbar, highlighting Angola’s persistent attacking intent.
Angola, finishing at the top of Group D, achieved their inaugural knockout victory at an Afcon finals, with their prior two quarter-final appearances occurring when the tournament featured 16 teams.
Even though Namibia was eliminated, they can draw numerous positives from their campaign. The Brave Warriors secured their first-ever finals win with a memorable 1-0 victory over Tunisia and reached the knockout stage for the first time in their history.