- I also dedicate this victory to all my family. I always work, even with my family,” Pedro Goncalves said.
- Angola topped the group with seven points.
Image: HANDOUT
Angola coach Pedro Goncalves said his team was decisive in crucial moments in the Africa Cup of Nations Group D match against Burkina Faso on Tuesday.
The Antelopes booked their slot in the round of 16 courtesy of goals from Cristovao “Mabululu” Paciencia and Ambrosini “Zini” Salvador to win 2-0 at Yamoussoukro’s Charles Konan Banny Stadium.
Angola qualified to the last of 16 for the first time since 2010.
“We achieved a historic record after we were able to win two consecutive matches. I am very happy for these young men. This victory is confirmation that we have passed the group stage," Goncalves said.
"Now we will rest and then we will prepare for the next match. We were smart throughout the match, especially during the important moments.
"We faced Burkina Faso, which is considered an excellent team. I also dedicate this victory to all my family. I always work, even with my family,” he added.
His opposite number, Hubert Velud lauded his team's first-half performance but bemoaned lack of a cutting edge in the final third.
“We played well in the first half, and we conceded a goal, then we were ineffective in our attack," Velud said.
"We then conceded the second goal in the match's final minutes, which killed our morale. We cannot say that Angola was stronger than us. There was a lack of attacking effectiveness on the part of Burkina Faso in the match.
“What matters most to us is the 16-final match. There will be another type of match, different from the group stage matches" Velud pointed out.
Angola topped the group with seven points.
Both sides got into the clash to secure all three points to finish as group leaders and therefore enjoy a slightly longer rest period ahead of the round of 16.
With both sides having a fair amount of chances at goal, Angola capitalized in the 36th minute when the dangerous Mabululu headed home to give his side the lead.
The goal gave Angola, who went into the game as group leaders the much-needed boost ahead of the recess.
Coming back from the break, the Stallions surged forward but could not break the stubborn Angolan defense.
Victory was eventually sealed on the stroke of full time by Zini after a stinging shot that rebounded off the keeper found an alert Zini who slotted home to secure the victory.