This Thursday, August 14, 2025, the Moi International Sports Center – Kasarani will host a monumental clash that could alter the destinies of two nations in Group A of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
When the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo face off against the Palancas Negras of Angola, the stakes are enormous—a significant step towards the quarter-finals awaits.
This is more than just a game. It’s a battle steeped in history, rivalry, and high stakes. For DRC, a two-time CHAN champion, the journey began with challenges but has surged back to life in their recent performance.
Angola, the runners-up in 2011, has embarked on a journey of steady progress, embodying a squad that harmonizes with its coach’s vision. Both teams understand that in such a tightly contested group, even the smallest detail can change the outcome.
Angola team
From History to High Stakes
The last meeting between these two sides in a CHAN final phase was in Rwanda 2016, where DRC triumphed 4-2 in a thrilling semi-final before lifting the trophy.
However, 2024 brings a new battlefield. Angola, guided by Portuguese tactician Pedro Gonçalves, has meticulously crafted a cohesive unit within a disciplined 3-4-3 formation, ready to strike with speed and precision.
For DRC, the path has been a paradox—a giant in stature, yet still seeking that full consistency on the pitch.
Their recent victory over Zambia served as a vital reminder of their potential, and now they face a crucial contest that will test their mental and tactical resolve.
Lupembe: Pressure Must Be a Weapon, Not a Weight
With head coach Otis Ngoma absent due to illness, assistant coach Daouda Lupembe has embraced the challenge, taking on both tactical and motivational roles.
“Fearing qualification is normal. But fearing loss breeds defeat. We must harness this pressure as motivation,” he emphasized.
Lupembe underscored that their previous match allowed him to rotate and evaluate his squad’s skills.
“The first objective pursued with this tie match (3-1) was to give playing time to those who hadn’t yet played, enabling us to assess what each could contribute and consider rearrangements for the team aligned against Zambia,” he shared.
He is acutely aware of the challenge that Angola presents.
“It will be tough because we face a team at the peak of their 3-4-3. They can strike at any moment. Our focus must be in midfield. Football often hinges on the details; while we prepare, there will always be uncertainties.”
Every Match Has Its Truth
The assistant coach urges his players to welcome the unpredictability of the game.
“Every match carries its truth. There will be strong moments and weak moments. It’s up to us to remain focused, consolidate our strengths, and minimize weaknesses. The entire Republic stands behind these young talents, and we believe in our ability to play beautifully and secure a good result.”
These words serve as a rallying cry for a team fully aware of what is at stake. A loss could spell the end of their campaign; a victory would open the group wide.
Angola’s Steady March
Angola has steadily gained momentum. Following a 1-1 draw with Kenya and a 2-1 victory over Zambia, they enter this match with four points and confidence in their approach.
Their mix of physical discipline and sharp attacking movement renders them a formidable adversary—and with this being their final group game, they will give it their all.
Fine Margins, Big Rewards
In Group A, Morocco, Angola, and DRC remain in the race.
For the Leopards, avoiding defeat is crucial for survival; for Angola, a win seals their place in the knockout stages.
The Nairobi crowd can anticipate intensity, drama, and perhaps a twist destined to be remembered long after CHAN 2024 concludes.
