Photo Credit: COSAFA Media
Angola had the vast majority of opportunities on Monday but the Palancas Negras fell behind early to Mauritius and were not able to punch back in a 1-0 Group C defeat at the 2023 COSAFA Cup. Aurélien Francois produced the only goal inside the opening ten minutes to give The Dodos their first three points while seriously hurting Angola’s hopes of advancing to the semifinals. Mauritius will now attempt to upset Mozambique while Angola face Lesotho on the final day of Group C play.
Untidy defending from the Angolans allowed Mauritius to strike through Francois in the 8th minute. A cross from the right wing was poorly dealt with by Angola defender Rúben and the ball fell for Francois who fired in past goalkeeper Nsesani.
From then on The Dodos focused their efforts on defending and frustrating the favorites, who struggled to find a way through. Mauritius goalkeeper Kévin Jean-Louis performed excellently and preserved the Mauritian lead early in the second half with an impressive reaction save on Angola forward César Cangui. In the closing stages the Palancas nearly found their leveler but Benarfa’s shot was deflected wide after a cross fell favorably for him in the penalty area.
Highlights from COSAFA TV are below.
