A solid second-half display from Angola saw them overpower Mauritius 3-1 in front of an energetic crowd at Estádio 11 de Novembro on Tuesday 9th September 2025. The result strengthens Angola’s campaign in Group D of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers, as they continue their push for a second-ever appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Angola, backed by their passionate home supporters, started brightly and looked the more dangerous side from kick-off. Their early efforts paid off in the 17th minute, when M’Bala Nzola broke the deadlock with a composed finish inside the box after a clever passing move carved open the Mauritian defence. The goal sent the Luanda faithful into raptures and gave Angola a deserved lead.
However, the celebration was short-lived. Just four minutes later, in the 21st minute, Mauritius responded against the run of play. A long ball into the Angolan half caused confusion between the center-backs, and William François took full advantage. The forward latched onto the loose ball and slotted it past the keeper, silencing the stadium and bringing the score to 1-1.
That equaliser gave Mauritius a temporary foothold in the game. Despite being under pressure for much of the half, they defended well and limited Angola to half chances. The visitors’ compact shape frustrated the home side, and the teams went into the break level.
The second half began with Angola showing much more urgency and cohesion in the final third. Their increased tempo and tactical tweaks paid off just before the hour mark.
In the 57th minute, Angola regained the lead. Midfielder Fredy, who had been a key orchestrator in midfield throughout the game, picked up the ball just outside the penalty area and rifled a low drive into the bottom corner. It was a reward for Angola’s relentless attacking pressure and marked a turning point in the match.
With momentum firmly in their favour, Angola struck again in the 63rd minute. This time it was Zini, recently introduced off the bench, who finished off a rapid counterattack that caught the Mauritian defence flat-footed. His precise finish gave Angola a commanding 3–1 advantage.
From that point on, it was one-way traffic. Angola controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and managed the game professionally. Mauritius struggled to respond, visibly deflated after conceding two goals in quick succession.
The victory lifts Angola higher in the CAF Group D standings, keeping them firmly in contention for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
