AFCON 2025: “We’re not afraid of anyone,” Angola is already warning South Africa and Egypt

As Angola’s new head coach, Patrice Beaumelle wants to restore the Palancas Negras’ luster. The French coach, a two-time winner of the Africa Cup of Nations (with Zambia in 2012 and Ivory Coast in 2015), approaches this challenge with a clear ambition: to build a united, disciplined team proud to represent its country.

« This will be my eighth AFCON, I love this competition. It holds a special place in my heart », Beaumelle said in a lengthy interview with CAFOnline, visibly happy to return to Angola, which he had already been involved with in 2010. At 47, the Frenchman comes back with the experience of Africa’s major nations and a solid vision to revive Angolan football.

Angola, reigning COSAFA Cup champion, drew a tough group at AFCON 2025, with South Africa, Mozambique and Egypt, the record-holder for titles. « We respect everyone, but we fear no one. Our strength will come from our unity », he warns.

Seduced by his players’ technical quality, Beaumelle wants to turn individual talent into collective strength: « Talent is not enough. If everyone plays for the team, we can go very far. Alone, I go faster, but together, we go further. »

Two months before the kick-off of AFCON 2025 in Morocco (21 décembre 2025 – 18 janvier 2026), Patrice Beaumelle remains true to his philosophy: humility, hard work and pride. « My dream is to make the Angolan people proud, not just today, but for generations to come. »