Angola vs Namibia Prediction: The end of the road for Namibia

Facing each other for the fourth time in their history, Angola and Namibia are set to compete for a spot in the quarter final stage of AFCON 2023. Having had no winner in their meetings since 1998, this contest holds significant importance for both sides as they aim to advance in the tournament and keep their AFCON hopes alive. Let's delve into the details of this match and make a prediction.

Angola, originally anticipated to compete with Burkina Faso for second place in Group D, defied expectations by finishing at the top. With a total of seven points, Pedro Goncalves's team secured a spot in the quarter-finals, marking their fourth appearance in the finals since hosting the tournament in 2010. Despite never progressing beyond this stage in 2012, 2013, and 2019, Angola's strong performance in the group stage has raised hopes for a deeper run.

Having achieved two victories, Angola has set a new record for the southern African side, surpassing their previous tournaments where they never won more than one game. Their scoring prowess has been a significant asset, as they've netted a total of six goals in the tournament, matching their combined total from 2012, 2013, and 2019. This positions Angola well for potential advancement to the quarter-finals, where they could face either Nigeria or Cameroon.

The Brave Warriors from Namibia are expected to pose a challenge for Angola, despite lacking experience at this stage of the Cup of Nations. Collin Benjamin's team achieved a historic victory in their tournament opener in Group E against 2004 champions Tunisia. This triumph ensured their place in the upcoming game as one of the best third-placed teams. Notably, Deon Hotto's 88th-minute winner against the Eagles of Carthage marked Namibia's first-ever win at the finals, providing a positive foundation despite a 4-0 loss to South Africa in their second match.

Despite a challenging defeat, a clean sheet in their final group match against Mali secured a valuable point for the Brave Warriors, ensuring their progression to a fourth fixture against Group C winners Angola. The recent inexperience of the Palancas Negras at this stage levels the playing field in Bouake. Regardless of the outcome, Namibia emerged as the major beneficiaries in a relatively uneventful group, and they aim to reach the tournament's last eight despite some challenges in scoring goals.

Angola possible starting lineup:

Neblu; Afonso, Gasper, Quinito, Carneiro; Fredy, Show; Gilberto, Zini, Dala; Mabululu

Namibia possible starting lineup:

Kazapua; Kamberipa, Amutenya, Haukonho, Hanamub; Petrus; Muzeu, Tijiueza, Katua, Hotto; Shalulile

Gelson Dala and Mabululu have emerged as Angola's standout performers, each contributing two goals to their team's success. The duo will aim to continue their impressive form and play a pivotal role in guiding the Palancas Negras to their third Afcon quarterfinals. In contrast, Namibia has struggled in the scoring department, managing only one goal in the competition, which may be insufficient for a team with ambitious aspirations. Scoring more becomes crucial for Namibia at this stage of the tournament.

Considering the current form and performances, Angola enters the match as the favorites. The expectation is that Angola will secure a victory in this encounter, building on their positive momentum in the tournament.