Angola's national team captain, Pedro Gonçalves, has been removed from his position.
In a significant move, the Angolan Football Federation (FAF) has parted ways with Portuguese coach Pedro Gonçalves, who served as the head coach of the Angolan football national team for an impressive five years. Gonçalves, who was the coach with the longest tenure among all African national teams after the departure of Aliou Cissé from the Senegal coaching position, leaves behind a legacy of unprecedented achievements.
Gonçalves' tenure with the Angolan national team was marked by numerous milestones. He led the team to an unprecedented qualification for the 2023 African Nations Cup (CAN) and won the COSAFA Cup in 2024, 20 years after the last victory. Under his leadership, Angola had its best-ever participation in the 2023 CAN, held in 2024.
The Angolan national team also qualified for the U-17 World Cup under Gonçalves' guidance, an achievement that will be remembered for years to come. His coaching tenure saw the team grow not only on the field but also in the confidence of the entire nation.
Pedro Gonçalves was more than a coach to the Angolan Football Federation. He was a partner and a leader who believed in Angola's potential and gave face and dignity to the national team. His achievements with the Angolan national team earned him a nomination for the Confederation of African Football (CAF) awards as the best coach of the year in September 2024.
However, the decision to dismiss Gonçalves was made by the board of the Angolan Football Federation due to failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The FAF marked the end of an era with Gonçalves' dismissal but expressed gratitude and acknowledged the achievements of the coach with the team.
The Angolan national team had unforgettable victories under Pedro Gonçalves' leadership. His departure leaves a void that will be hard to fill. Yet, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Angolan footballers and coaches.
In his five years with the Angolan national team, Gonçalves proved that with determination, belief, and hard work, even the most challenging goals can be achieved. His departure marks the end of an era, but his impact on Angolan football will be felt for years to come.
