Beaumelle Bets on Angola’s Grit: A Toughtest Ahead as Egypt Looms in AFCON 2025
28 December 2025
Beaumelle Sees a Tough Test as Angola Face Egypt
French coach Patrice Beaumelle, head coach of the Angola national team, said the upcoming match against Egypt in the third round of Group B at AFCON 2025 would not be easy. Egypt leads the group with six points after beating Zimbabwe and South Africa, while Angola sit third with one point.
Rest, Form, and Angola’s Path to the Knockouts
Beaumelle told reporters that Egypt probably won’t be harmed by resting key players because they already possess a deep, talented squad across Europe, the Gulf, and the domestic league.
He added that the decision on resting starters isn’t the main issue, as Egypt’s strength comes from their broad pool of players who constantly compete in continental events.
Angola have no alternative but to win to stay in the knockout race, Beaumelle said, noting that fortune did not favor his side in the first two games, but they will chase the three points against Egypt.
Focus on Angola, Confidence in Beaumelle’s Team
“We will focus on ourselves and trust our abilities to beat Egypt,” he said, adding that he watched Egypt’s first two matches and admired their mental strength and defensive resolve against South Africa, which earned them a clean sheet and qualification.
He also pointed out Egypt’s stability, with many players who have played together for a decade, and emphasized that the most important thing is the football his team will play—a tough but exciting challenge.
Chico Banza and the Road Ahead
On Chico Banza of Zamalek, Beaumelle said he is an important player with skill and speed, who knows the ins and outs of Egyptian football from his time at the club and could be ready to contribute at any moment.
Beaumelle concluded that Angola came to AFCON to build for the future, giving opportunities to youth while pursuing chances to advance in the tournament.
Punchline 1: If football were a sniper rifle, Beaumelle would aim for the top corner and celebrate—silence in the stands until the net breaks the suspense.
Punchline 2: And if that fails, at least the referee’s whistle will have good timing—because everyone loves a dramatic finish with a splash of sunscreen.
