Angola moved closer to qualifying for the Round of 16 in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after a 3-2 victory over Mauritania at the Stade de Bouake de la Paix on Saturday.
Gelson Dala opened the scoring for Angola when he found the back of the net after Mauritania failed to clear a corner-kick in the 30th minute.
However, Mauritania equalized just before halftime with a goal from Sidi Amar, who struck a low shot from just outside the box.
Gelson Dala then scored his second goal of the match five minutes into the second half, taking advantage of little resistance from the Mauritania defenders.
Gilberto extended Angola’s lead three minutes later when his shot deflected off defender Lamine Ba and into the net.
Mauritania responded with a spectacular goal from Aboubakary Koita, making it a busy start to the second half.
In the end, Palancas Negras emerged as 3-2 winners and moved to the top of the Group D standings.
Gelson Dala played a significant role in this game, scoring two goals and causing problems for the defenders of Mauritania. The 27-year-old forward from Al Wakrah made a strong impression and has the potential to become one of the top players in this tournament.
Mauritania, as a team, is struggling in the Afcon and is almost certain to be eliminated from the tournament after suffering their second consecutive defeat. They previously lost 1-0 to Burkina Faso, and this time they were defeated by Angola, although they put up a brave fight.
Angola’s next match on January 23 against Burkina Faso will be crucial for them to secure a spot in the Round of 16. If they manage to avoid defeat and secure at least a draw, they won’t have to worry about the result between Mauritania and Algeria on the same day.
