Angola defeated Zambia 3–2 in an international friendly on Tuesday night in Luanda. Both teams used the game to fine-tune their preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which kicks off on December 21 in Morocco.

The Chipolopolo Boys, who were without a number of their senior players due to various reasons, including family commitments, injuries, and sickness, have now lost three straight games, losing badly due to defensive errors.

Angola made an explosive start and went ahead in the 5th minute through Joao Felicio, who pounced on hesitant defending to slot home from close range. Zambia responded well after the setback, gradually settling into rhythm and finding their equaliser in the 21st minute when Swedish-raised striker Jack Kaliche Lahn struck from outside the 18-yard box to make it 1–1.

The hosts restored their advantage five minutes before the break. Zito Luvumbo capitalised on defensive woes in the Zambian backline as his shot took a deflection to give Angola a 2–1 lead at halftime.

Zambia came out with renewed intensity in the second half and levelled matters in the 48th minute. Fashion Sakala timed his run perfectly before beating the Angolan goalkeeper to bring the scoreline to 2–2.

But Zambia’s happiness didn’t last long. Angola scored again in the 57th minute, this time through Pacirncia Mabululu, who leaped to the top and headed home the game-winning goal.

In the final moments, both teams created opportunities, with Zambia attempting to tie the score again, but Angola held firm to win in front of their home crowd.

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