Algeria and Angola embark on their journey for continental glory as they face off in the Group D opener of the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday, scheduled for 8 pm at the Stade de la Paix.
The North African powerhouse, Algeria, seeks its third AFCON title on this expedition, while the Palancas Negras of Angola aspire to reach the knockout stages for the first time since 2010.
Algeria's impressive qualification sees them making their sixth consecutive AFCON appearance, marking their longest streak since the stretch between 1980 and 1992. Ranked 30th in the world, the Desert Warriors aim to erase the memory of their 2021 disappointment, where they faltered in the group stage during their title defense.
Djamel Belmadi's squad, victorious in 2019, eyes another triumph. Algeria, one of seven nations with multiple AFCON titles, emerged champions in 1990 and 2019. They enter the Group D opener unbeaten in 13 outings, showcasing their dominance, including a convincing 4-0 win over Burundi in their final warm-up friendly.
Monday's encounter pits Algeria against Angola, a team winless in eight of their last nine matches since March 1985. The last meeting between these two nations was a goalless draw in the 2010 AFCON.
Angola, participating in their ninth AFCON, returns to the continental showpiece after missing the last two editions. The Palancas Negras, under coach Pedro Goncalves, aim to progress to the knockout stages, a feat they last achieved in 2010.
Pedro Goncalves, having previously coached Angola's Under-17 and Under-20 teams, witnessed his side secure a 3-0 victory over Bahrain in their final warm-up friendly, instilling confidence in the team ahead of the AFCON challenge.
Angola's task won't be easy as they contend with Burkina Faso and two-time African champions Algeria and Mauritania in Group D. However, their unbeaten streak in the last five opening games, including one win and four draws, reflects their resilience. Their last opening-day defeat dates back to 2006 against Cameroon.
As the Stade de la Paix sets the stage for this Group D clash, both Algeria and Angola harbor hopes, dreams, and the determination to make their mark in the AFCON 2023 tournament. The battle on Monday promises to be a thrilling spectacle as these teams kick off their quest for continental supremacy.
