AFCON: Beaumelle disappointed with Angola draw against Egypt

Angola national team coach Patrice Beaumelle admits he was left upset with the 0-0 draw against Egypt in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco on Tuesday.

In the fixture at the Stade d’Agadir, the Palancas Negras enjoyed the better of the contest, particularly in the second half, but Egypt’s defensive discipline and resilience ensured they left with a point.

Beaumelle: Angola deserved to beat Egypt

“I have mixed feelings tonight. First of all, I am sad because we only got one point. We wanted more. But on the other hand, I saw my team do exactly what I asked of them on the pitch,” Beaumelle told reporters after the game.

“I think we were the better team tonight and that we deserved to win. In short, I am sad but at the same time very proud of my players.

“I want to pay tribute to Fredy, who is ending his career. He has an exemplary mentality. I salute his ability to play matches back-to-back in this competition at his age.”

“Personally, I hope this is not his last match and that we receive good news in the next two days — namely, qualification for the next round even with two points.”

He concluded: “Whatever happens, I hope he remains with the team and that we can continue working with him for the development of Angolan football.”

On his part, Fredy, who was named man of the match, said: “I’m happy to receive this trophy because I gave everything tonight. But it’s difficult to talk about this award because it’s not what we wanted from this final match.

“We gave everything, we created chances, but we couldn’t score the goal we needed. And also because this is my last match for the national team, which makes me very sad.”

“I’ve been part of this team for 12 years, and I know all of Angola will be sad. But I am 35 years old today and I gave everything with my heart for this team. My teammates will carry on the work. I am very proud to be Angolan and to have worn this shirt.”

While Egypt qualified to the knockout stages as group winners with seven points, Angola finished third with two points. However, they can still qualify for the Round of 16 if both Uganda (v. Nigeria) and Tanzania (v. Tunisia) lose their final matches in Group C on Tuesday.