World Cup Analysis

Angola were the least talked about nation coming into Germany 2006, but have left with their heads held high. Stefan Paoli finds many positives in the journey of the Palancas Negras.

When it came to unknown quantities at this years World Cup, Angola had absolutely no competition.

Unlike other nations, they were unable to boast even one star player. Even the Togolese, who were tipped to go out in embarrasment, could boast Arsenal player Emmanuel Adebayor. The only player in Angola’s ranks who is anywhere close to being known by anybody is Pedro Mantorras, who is no more than a fringe player at Benfica currently. And worse still- despite being fully fit, all three of Mantorras’ appearance came as substitutes.

But for all that the Palancas Negras, or Black Antelopes as it translates to, lack in star quality (most of their players play in Portuguese lower divisions or in Arab nations), they make up for with an indomitable team spirit- something which is somewhat uncharacteristic of other African nations. Their coach, Luis Oliveira Goncalves, has shown himself to have an ice-cool temperament as well as being more than capable of making the tough decisions. Mantorras, forever seen as the talented troublemaker in the Angolan camp, was relegated to a position on the bench during this tournament- presumably as a note from Goncalves to show who is boss.

As well as being Angola’s best player, Ricardo wouldn’t be without a shout for goalkeeper of the World Cup

Their player of the tournament, however, was goalkeeper Joao Ricardo. Ricardo, who had been out of the club game for nine months, after being deemed surplus to requirements by just about every club around, produced three stunning performances to earn himself many plaudits and even a man of the match performance against Mexico. In front of a defence which can be referred to as no better than friendly, Ricardo truly proved to be [b]the[/b] antelope. The one antelope who stood head and shoulders above everybody else. As well as being Angola’s best player, Ricardo wouldn’t be without a shout for ‘keeper of the World Cup.

The man charged with the task of leading the Palancas Negras to the World Cup was Akwa, another one of the Angolans who is currently clubless. Akwa showed what many other Angolans lacked- flair. Akwa was constantly playing balls through for his industrious midfielders and wingers to run on to, and despite not having hit the back of the net, the inspirational Akwa can leave Germany with his head held high.

The fighting spirit of this Angolan side was summed up by the game against Iran. When they took the lead in the 70th minute through Flavio’s header, they decided to attempt to score more goals to attempt to qualify for the 2nd round, rather than settling for an historic victory. The price though, was an equaliser for Iran. Nevertheless, Angola have shown themselves capable of competing on the biggest stage.

Now though, Goncalves is faced with a problem. Three of his best charges- Joao Ricardo, Figuireido and Akwa have announced that they’ll be retiring from international football. However, with his tactical nous and sensational man management, Goncalves must be congratulated on having introduced a new force to the African game. His fearless and exciting brand of football is one that will have him earn the respect of many judges.

ANGOLA FACTBOX

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Tags: Angola

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