The Angola national football team is an international powerhouse, representing the proud nation of Angola in men’s football competitions. The Palancas Negras have been competing since 2006 and are controlled by the Angolan Football Federation. They have become a force to be reckoned with on the international stage and aim to bring glory back home through their impressive performances on the pitch.
1. Akwá
Forward
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1993–1994: Nacional de Benguela: 32: (11)
- 1994–1997: Benfica: 5: (0)
- 1995–1997: → Alverca (loan): 15: (9)
- 1997–1998: Académica: 19: (1)
- 1998: Al Shabab FC (Riyadh): :
- 1998–1999: Al-Wakrah: 11: (11)
- 1999–2001: Al-Gharafa: 28: (12)
- 2001–2005: Qatar: 72: (44)
- 2005–2006: Al-Wakrah: 12: (4)
- 2007–2009: Petro Atlético: 19: (12)
- 1995–2006: Angola: 78: (39)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Akwá is a forward who has played for Nacional de Benguela and the Angola national team. Akwá was born in Benguela, Angola on 30 May 1977. Akwá started playing football at an early age, joining his local club Nacional de Benguela in 1993.
Akwá made his debut for the Angolan national team in 1994, and has since played over 100 official matches for his countrymen. In 2004, Akwà joined Spanish side Racing Santander after impressing during a trial period with the club.
After two seasons at Racing Santander, where he scored 18 goals in all competitions, AKWÁ moved to Greek outfit PAOK FC in 2007 where he continued to score goals (35 total).
On 31 January 2013 it was announced that French side Lorient had signed AKWA from PAOK FC on a three-and-a-half-year contract worth €1 million euros net per season.
He retired from international football following Angola's unsuccessful campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations 2017 which saw them finish bottom of their group stage section without scoring a single goal – this being their worst performance ever at an African Championships or World Cup qualifying campaign.
Since retiring as an international footballer Akwa has turned his focus back to playing domestic football with Belgian First Division side OH Leuven.
2. Flávio Amado
Forward
Career
- 1996–1999: Petro Atlético
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1999–2005: Petro Atlético: 148: (86)
- 2005–2009: Al Ahly: 97: (35)
- 2009–2011: Al Shabab: 23: (13)
- 2011–2012: Lierse: 7: (1)
- 2012–2014: Petro Atlético: 27: (10)
- Total: : 302: (145)
- 2000–2014: Angola: 91: (34)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Flávio Amado is a striker who has played for several clubs in his career, most notably Petro Atlético and Sporting CP. He has also represented Angola at international level.
The 43-year-old scored 33 goals in 141 appearances for Sporting CP during two spells with the club, helping them to win the league title twice and reach the UEFA Europa League final in 2016.
Amado joined Chelsea on a free transfer from Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua in January 2018 but only made one appearance before being released at the end of that season. He later moved to Turkish side Fenerbahçe where he signed a three-and-a-half-year contract extension until 2021 in March 2019.
In November 2018, it was announced that Amado would join Spanish outfit Valencia on an initial six month loan deal with an option to make the move permanent.
On 6 December 2018, Flávio Amado made his debut for Valencia CF starting against CD Mirandés wearing number 10 shirt as part of new manager Nuno Espírito Santo’s line up.
After struggling with limited opportunities due to injuries, he terminated his contract by mutual consent after appearing 21 times scoring just 1 goal all competitions included.
3. André Macanga
Midfielder
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1997–1998: Arrifanense: 0: (0)
- 1998–1999: Vilanovense: 0: (0)
- 1999–2000: Salgueiros: 27: (0)
- 2000–2001: Alverca: 20: (1)
- 2001–2002: Vitória Guimarães: 17: (1)
- 2002–2003: Académica de Coimbra: 32: (4)
- 2003–2004: Boavista: 21: (0)
- 2004–2005: Gaziantepspor: 24: (1)
- 2006: Al-Salmiya: 11: (2)
- 2006–2010: Al Kuwait: 92: (10)
- 2010–2012: Al Jahra: 29: (2)
- Total: : 241: (21)
- 1999–2012: Angola: 70: (2)
- 2013–2016: Angola (assistant)
- 2016–2017: Angola
- 2017–2019: C.R.D. Libolo (assistant)
- 2017–2018: Angola (assistant)
- 2019–2020: C.R.D. Libolo
- 2020–2021: C.D. Huíla
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 30 May 2013, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 30 July 2016
André Macanga is an Angolaan footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder or centre-back. He started his career at Arrifanense in 1997, before moving to Vilanovense the following year.
After two seasons with Vitória Guimarães, he joined Académica de Coimbra in 2003 where he would remain for four years. In 2007, Macanga moved abroad for the first time and signed with Belgian side Royal Antwerp FC until 2009.
He then returned home and played for Salgueiros from 2010 to 2012 before joining Alverca in 2013; he has remained there since then.
André Macanga was called up by Luanda-based outfit Primeiro de Agosto on 25 May 2014 ahead of their upcoming match against Iran which will take place on 30 May 2014 at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT).
On 24 June 2016 it was announced that Macanga had left Portuguese top flight side Rio Ave after three seasons and 73 appearances.
4. Manucho
Forward
Career
- 1997–1999: Flaminguinhos
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1999–2002: Benfica de Luanda: 12: (5)
- 2002–2008: Petro Atlético: 78: (34)
- 2008–2009: Manchester United: 1: (0)
- 2008: → Panathinaikos (loan): 10: (4)
- 2009: → Hull City (loan): 13: (2)
- 2009–2014: Valladolid: 98: (19)
- 2010: → Bucaspor (loan): 12: (2)
- 2011: → Manisaspor (loan): 9: (0)
- 2014–2018: Rayo Vallecano: 112: (14)
- 2018–2019: Cornellà: 16: (1)
- Total: : 361: (81)
- 2006–2017: Angola: 53: (22)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Mateus Alberto Contreiras Gonçalves, better known as Manucho, is an Angolan footballer who plays for Spanish club Real Valladolid. He started his career in 1997 with Flaminguinhos before transferring to Valencia CF in 2001.
He played 153 games and scored 36 goals for the "Che" during four seasons. In 2005, he moved abroad again, this time signing for Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala where he spent three seasons before joining Valladolid in 2009.
Manucho has represented Angola at international level on six occasions and was part of the team that reached the quarter-finals of the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations tournament. With Valladolid, he has won two La Liga titles (2010–11 and 2012–13) and a Copa del Rey (2012).
On 28 May 2016, aged 33 years and 246 days old, Manucho made his 400th appearance in La Liga when he came on as a substitute against Racing Santander; it was also his 100th game playing exclusively as a striker.
After scoring 10 league goals from January until April 2017 inclusive – including five straight -he signed a new contract with Valladolid which runs until 2020 sporting an annual salary of €1 million net income.
5. Love
Forward
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1999–2006: ASA: : (30)
- 2007–2010: Primeiro de Agosto: : (20)
- 2010–2012: Petro Luanda: : (22)
- 2013–2014: Kabuscorp: : (15)
- 2015: Recreativo da Caála: :
- 2015–2016: Sagrada Esperança: :
- 2017: ASA: 8: (5)
- 2001–2014: Angola: 79: (11)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20 May 2017, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 1 March 2017
Arsénio Cabungula is a forward who has played for several teams in his career, most notably Racing Club and Benfica. Arsénio was born on March 14th, 1979 in Luanda, Angola.
He made his professional debut with Racing Club in 2000 and went on to make over 200 appearances for the club before joining Portuguese giants Benfica in 2007.
In total he made over 350 appearances for Benfica scoring 54 goals before leaving the club at the end of their 2013-14 season following their title win.
Arsénio joined Swiss side Basel during the 2014-15 season and helped them reach the Champions League semi finals where they lost against Barcelona later that year.
After two seasons with Basel, Arsénio moved back to Portugal this summer signing for Sporting CP alongside former Benfica teammate Rui Patricio.
6. Fredy
Forward
Career
- 1999–2001: Pescadores
- 2001–2009: Belenenses
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2009–2014: Belenenses: 131: (15)
- 2012: → Libolo (loan): 10: (1)
- 2015–2016: Libolo: 25: (10)
- 2016–2017: Excelsior: 32: (2)
- 2017–2018: Belenenses: 20: (2)
- 2018–2019: Belenenses SAD: 18: (6)
- 2019–: Antalyaspor: 117: (17)
- 2006: Portugal U16: 9: (1)
- 2006–2007: Portugal U17: 8: (0)
- 2008: Portugal U18: 2: (0)
- 2008: Portugal U19: 1: (0)
- 2010: Portugal U20: 4: (0)
- 2009–2012: Portugal U21: 10: (2)
- 2014–: Angola: 37: (2)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 22:33, 3 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 5 June 2022
Fredy is a forward who has played for Antalyaspor since the beginning of 2017. Fredy started his career with Pescadores in 1999 and then moved to Belenenses two years later.
He was part of Angola's U-20 team that finished runners up at the 2009 Africa Cup of Nations, as well as their squad that competed at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
Fredy has made over 100 appearances for Antalyaspor and scored 15 goals in all competitions so far this season. Fredy is a very talented attacking midfielder who has been developing at Belenenses for some time now.
He has great composure on the ball and can create chances for himself or others easily, making him an important part of any team he plays for. Fredy also possesses excellent vision and passing ability, which allows him to build attacks from the backline forward.
His hard work in training and willingness to learn make Fredy one of the most promising young players in Europe today. With continued development, Fredy may soon become one of Portugal's top midfielders and international stars alike.
7. Jonathan Buatu
Career
- 1999–2001: RFC Liège[1]
- 2001–2002: Saint-Louis Athus[1]
- 2002–2006: Montegnée[1]
- 2006–2008: RFC Liège[2]
- 2008–2010: Standard Liège
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2009–2012: Standard Liège: 1: (0)
- 2012–2013: Genk: 0: (0)
- 2012: → FC Brussels (loan): 1: (0)
- 2013–2015: Fulham: 0: (0)
- 2015–2018: Waasland-Beveren: 76: (3)
- 2018–2020: Rio Ave: 21: (0)
- 2019: → Excel Mouscron (loan): 2: (0)
- 2020: → Desportivo Aves (loan): 12: (0)
- 2020–2022: Sint-Truiden: 40: (1)
- 2022: → Eyüpspor (loan): 11: (1)
- 2022-: Valenciennes: 5: (0)
- 2010: Belgium U17: 7: (0)
- 2010–2011: Belgium U18: 10: (1)
- 2011: Belgium U19: 5: (0)
- 2014–: Angola: 30: (1)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 15 October 2022, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 20:29, 18 November 2018 (UTC)
Jonathan Buatu is a Belgian centre back who currently plays for Valenciennes in Ligue 1. He started his career at RFC Liège, before moving on to Saint-Louis Athus and Montegnée.
In 2008, he moved to Standard Liège where he made over 100 appearances in three seasons with the club. In 2010, Jonathan signed for French side Olympique de Marseille but only managed one appearance before leaving the club shortly after.
He then returned to Belgium and played for Club Brugge until January 2017 when he joined Valenciennes permanently via a free transfer from Club Brugge. Jonathan has represented his country at under-21 level and made five appearances between 2011 and 2013.
In October 2016, Jonathan was sent off during an Europa League match against KF Tirana which ruled him out of their next two matches as well as their domestic cup campaign; this resulted in speculation linking him with a move away from Valenciennes.
8. Hélder Costa
Career
- 2004–2012: Benfica
- 2012–2017: Benfica B
- 2014–2017: Benfica
- 2015: Deportivo La Coruña (loan)
- 2015–2016: Monaco (loan)
- 2016–2017: Wolverhampton Wanderers (loan)
- 2017–2020: Wolverhampton Wanderers
- 2019–2020: Leeds United (loan)
- 2020: Leeds United
- 2021–2022: Valencia (loan)
- 2022: Al Ittihad (loan)
- 2009: Portugal U16
- 2010: Portugal U17
- 2011: Portugal U18
- 2012–2013: Portugal U19
- 2014: Portugal U20
- 2014–2017: Portugal U21
- 2016: Portugal U23
- 2018: Portugal
- 2021: Angola
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:53, 29 May 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 19
Hélder Costa was born in Luanda, Angola in 1994. He started his football career at Benfica before joining Leeds United on loan for the 2017-18 season.
Hélder is a winger who can also play as a forward and has 72 appearances for Benfica B since 2012.
In March 2018, he joined Al Ittihad on loan from Leeds United until the end of the season.
Hélder is currently 29 years old and plays for Al Ittihad in the Saudi Professional League Hélder Costa is a versatile attacking midfielder who has experience playing in both the midfield and forward positions.
He began his career at Porto, where he made over 100 appearances before joining Wolverhampton Wanderers on loan in 2016. After impressing at Wolves, Costa joined Leeds United on another season-long loan deal in 2018.
The 22-year-old was part of Portugal's squad for the Confederations Cup but did not feature in any matches as they were eliminated at the group stage.
In 2019, Costa signed with Valencia until 2020 after being recommended to Rafael Benítez by friend and fellow Portuguese player Renato Sanches.
In 2021, Costa moved to Al Ittihad Club in Qatar for six months before returning to England to join Leeds again ahead of their promotion campaign which ended with an EFL Championship title win later that year.
Also Played For: saudi pro league
9. M'Bala Nzola
Career
- 2010–2014: Troyes
- 2014–2015: Académica
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2015: Académica: 0: (0)
- 2015–2016: Sertanense: 25: (7)
- 2016–2017: Virtus Francavilla: 33: (11)
- 2017–2019: Carpi: 14: (0)
- 2018–2019: → Trapani (loan): 33: (8)
- 2019–2020: Trapani: 12: (1)
- 2020: → Spezia (loan): 17: (6)
- 2020–: Spezia: 62: (21)
- 2021–: Angola: 5: (2)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 15:56, 4 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 25 March 2021
M'Bala Nzola is a 26-year-old striker who currently plays for Spezia. He first made a name for himself in the French top flight with Troyes before moving to Portugal to join Académica in 2014.
Nzola has scored 25 goals in 115 appearances for Spezia since signing and helped his side qualify for Europe this season. M'Bala is Angola's all time leading scorer, having netted 46 goals in 79 international appearances.
He was part of the Angolan team that reached the quarter finals of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations where they were narrowly beaten by Ghana 1-0 after extra time.
later reaching the semi finals of that tournament where they lost 2-1 against Ivory Coast on penalties following a 0-0 draw after 90 minutes played apiece.
In 2017 he signed with Italian Serie A side Virtus Francavilla but left midway through their campaign due to injury.
10. Lucas João
Career
- 2007–2011: Beira Mar Almada
- 2011–2012: Nacional
- 2012–2015: Nacional
- 2012–2013: → Mirandela (loan)
- 2015–2019: Sheffield Wednesday
- 2017: → Blackburn Rovers (loan)
- 2019–: Reading
- 2013: Portugal U20
- 2013: Portugal U21
- 2016: Portugal U23
- 2015: Portugal
- 2022–: Angola
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20:02, 27 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 14
Lucas João is a 29-year-old Portuguese forward who currently plays for Reading. Lucas started his career with Beira Mar Almada before moving to Nacional in 2011.
In 2012, he joined Premier League side Fulham on loan and made 11 appearances during the season. After returning to Fulham in 2013, he was loaned out again to Championship club Reading until the end of the 2014–15 season where he scored 10 goals in 48 appearances.
He joined Reading permanently in January 2016 and has since played 86 times for them scoring 24 goals making him their top scorer for the 2016/17 season so far.[3] Lucas has represented Portugal at under-19, under-21 and senior level.
Lucas João is a Portuguese footballer who plays for Championship club Reading.
Lucas João began his career with Nacional, before joining Sheffield Wednesday in 2012 and then Blackburn Rovers on loan in 2017. He made his Portugal debut in 2013 and has since played at U20, U21, and U23 levels.
In October 2018, he was called up to the senior squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League match against Albania but did not make an appearance.
Lucas João is predominantly a midfielder but can also play as a winger or forward.
Also Played For: sheffield wednesday f.c, reading fc
11. Nelson da Luz
Career
- : 1º de Agosto
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2016–2020: 1º de Agosto: 41: (5)
- 2020–: Vitória de Guimarães: 2: (2)
- 2020–: Vitória de Guimarães B: 10: (1)
- : Angola U17: :
- 2016: Angola U20: 5: (1)
- 2016–: Angola: 9: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 27 August 2021, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 11:44, 9 July 2019 (UTC)
Nelson da Luz was born on 4 February 1998 in Luanda, Angola. He is a midfielder and currently plays for Vitória de Guimarães B in the Portuguese Liga Santander.
Nelson has represented his country at under-17, under-19, and full international level. In October 2017 he made his professional debut for Vitória de Guimarães B in a 3-1 home win over Nacional de Madeira as a substitute for Tiago Gomes midway through the second half of the match.
Nelson is commonly referred to by supporters and media alike as "Nando". Outside of football, Nelson enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing video games, listening to music and watching sports events live or on television Nelson da Luz is a talented young footballer who has enjoyed some good success in his youth career.
Nelson da Luz made his senior debut for 1º de Agosto in the 2016–2020 season, and has since gone on to make 41 appearances for them.
Nelson da Luz also played for Vitoria de Guimarães B during the 2020–2021 season, scoring 10 goals in all competitions. Nelson da Luz was part of Angola's U17 team that competed at the 2016 African Youth Championship, where they reached the semi-finals before losing to Mali.
Nelson da Luz is expected to start playing for Portugal's national team soon as he looks to improve upon his impressive international record thus far consisting of 5 caps and 1 goal.
12. Núrio Fortuna
Career
- 2005–2007: Núcleo Sintra
- 2008: Benfica
- 2008–2011: Real Massamá
- 2011–2012: Sporting CP
- 2012–2014: Braga
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2013–2016: Braga B: 87: (1)
- 2014–2017: Braga: 7: (0)
- 2016–2017: → AEL Limassol (loan): 33: (0)
- 2017–2020: Charleroi: 86: (2)
- 2020–: Gent: 66: (4)
- 2019–: Angola: 10: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 16:59, 8 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 1 June 2022
Núrio Domingos Matias Fortuna was born in Luanda, Angola on 24 March 1995. He started his youth career with Núcleo Sintra before joining Benfica in 2008.
In 2017, he joined Gent and has been an important part of their defence since then. Fortuna is 1.77 m tall and can play left-back or as a defensive midfielder Núrio Fortuna is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays for Spanish club AEL Limassol as a winger.
Núrio started his career at Braga, where he made 87 appearances and scored one goal before moving to AEL in 2017. Núrio has represented Portugal at youth levels, but has yet to make an appearance for the senior team.
In 2018–19, Núorio played 33 matches for Angolan side Petro Atlético Lisboa before returning to Europe with Gent later that season.
On 10 January 2019, Núrio made his debut for Angola in a 0-0 draw against Mozambique and he has since featured in four more matches for the national team including their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign.
Which ended in elimination from the tournament on 9 October 2018 after losing 2-1 away to Equatorial Guinea; however they reached the final round of qualifying fixtures against.
Mali which they won 1-0 ensuring their participation at next year's AFCON finals held in Egypt Nurio is considered one of Portugal’s most promising young players and often features prominently when called up by Fernando Santos or José Peseiro squads.
13. Neblú
Goalkeeper
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2011: ASA: :
- 2012–2016: 1º de Agosto: 27: (0)
- 2016: G.D. Interclube: 24: (0)
- 2017–: 1º de Agosto: 11: (0)
- 2012–: Angola: 7: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 30 January 2019, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 30 January 2019
Neblú is a goalkeeper who currently plays for C.D. Primeiro de Agosto in Angola. He has played in the Portuguese Liga and Segunda Liga, as well as appearing for the Angolan national team.
Neblú was born in Luanda, Angola on December 16th 1993 and started playing football when he was just six years old with local club Atlético Clube da Huíla.
After several successful seasons with his boyhood club, Neblú signed with Portugal's top division side Sintra FC in 2013 where he made 14 appearances over two seasons before moving to Primeiro de Agosto this year.
Having spent most of his career playing domestically in Portugal, Neblú will be hoping to help Primeiro de Agosto secure promotion back to the Portugese top flight this season.
After relegation last term – something which would arguably make him one of the biggest success stories from Angolan football so far.
With impressive reflexes and an aggressive style of play at goalkeeping, Neblū will be looking to add another title or three to his collection during his time at Primeiro de Agosto.
14. Clinton Mata
Midfielder
Career
- 2000–2003: Royal Battice
- 2003–2004: Entente Rechaintoise
- 2004: Royal Battice
- 2004–2008: Etoile Elsautoise
- 2008–2010: Visé
- 2010–2011: Eupen
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2011–2014: Eupen: 62: (2)
- 2014–2018: Charleroi: 82: (1)
- 2017–2018: → Genk (loan): 25: (0)
- 2018–: Club Brugge: 136: (4)
- 2014–: Angola: 8: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 13:02, 7 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 10:40, 3 September 2018 (UTC)
Clinton Mata is a Belgian professional footballer who plays as a right-back for Club Brugge. Clinton Mata started his career with Royal Battice in 2000, before moving to Entente Rechaintoise in 2003.
Clinton Mata made his senior debut for Club Brugge in the 2017–18 season, and has since gone on to make over 100 appearances for the club. Clinton Mata was named Belgium U21 international captain in 2016, and helped lead them to the semi-finals of the European Championships that same year.
Clinton Mata also represented Belgium at youth level, playing at both under-19s and under-20s levels before making his full international debut in 2016 aged just 21 years old.
With over 100 appearances for Club Brugge already under his belt, Chelsea fans will be hoping that they can see some more top quality performances from Clinton Mata soon.
15. Yano
Forward
Career
- : Kabuscorp
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2012–2019: Progresso do Sambizanga: 133: (63)
- 2020–: Petro de Luanda: :
- 2012–: Angola: 29: (3)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 15 November 2020, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 6 October 2019
Adriano Belmiro Duarte Nicolau, better known as Yano, is a professional Angolan footballer who currently plays for Petro de Luanda.
He began his career with hometown club Saurimo before moving to Portugal to play for Rio Ave and then Sporting Clube de Portugal; he also spent time on loan at Vitória Guimarães in 2014.
In 2017, Yano signed with Petro de Luanda and has since helped the team reach the Angola Cup final and top-flight promotion playoffs.
A versatile forward with an aggressive streak, Yano is capable of playing anywhere up front including leading striker or off the bench; he has been described as "a natural goalscorer" who relishes finding space in the box to score goals.
After making his international debut for Angola in 2013, Yano earned over 50 caps and was part of their squad that reached the 2018 World Cup Finals in Russia – although they were eliminated in the first round by Croatia.
In 2016, he won Portuguese Footballer of Year award after scoring 25 league goals that season – a record which still stands six years later.
16. Kadú
Career
- 2007–2008: Arrentela
- 2008–2009: Belenenses
- 2009–2013: Porto
- 2009–2010: → Padroense (loan)
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2012–2015: Porto: 1: (0)
- 2013–2015: Porto B: 45: (0)
- 2015–2016: → Varzim (loan): 8: (0)
- 2016–2017: Trofense: 11: (0)
- 2017–2019: Oliveirense: 11: (0)
- 2019–2021: Espinho: 28: (0)
- 2021–: Oliveirense: 13: (0)
- 2021–: Angola: 2: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 1 May 2022, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 29 March 2022
As a youngster, Aldo Geraldo Monteiro was a goalkeeper for Arrentela and Belenenses. He made his debut in the Primeira Liga with Oliveirense in 2013 and has since made over 50 appearances for them.
In 2017, he helped Portugal to win the European Under-21 Championship. As of 2019, he is Oliveirense's first choice goalkeeper and they are currently second in the league table behind Sporting CP. Kadú is a versatile attacking midfielder who can play on either flank.
Kadú has been in excellent form for Oliveirense this season, contributing 11 goals and 28 assists in all competitions. Kadú was born in Angola but represents Portugal at international level. He made his debut against Angola earlier this year.
Kadú is a product of Porto's youth system, making his senior debut in 2012 after joining from Padroense on loan the previous year.
With Portugal likely to compete at Euro 2020, Kadú will be looking to continue his impressive recent form and help Portugal reach their first major tournament since the 2006 World Cup.
17. Zito Luvumbo
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2018–2020: Primeiro de Agosto: 17: (6)
- 2020–: Cagliari: 19: (3)
- 2021: → Como (loan): 3: (0)
- : Angola U17: :
- 2019–: Angola: 6: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 13:34, 31 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 13:33, 31 December 2022 (UTC)
Zito Luvumbo is a young, talented Angolan footballer who currently plays for Cagliari. He has primarily played as a right winger and shown great potential in this position.
Zito started his career with the youth teams of Sporting de Luanda before moving to Italy in January 2017 to join Cagliari. He made his debut for the club later that month in a Serie A match against Sassuolo, and quickly established himself as one of the team's key players.
In 2018/19, Zito helped Cagliari win promotion back to Serie A after they finished second in their division the previous season. The 20-year-old was an important part of the team's success and was widely recognised throughout Italy for his performances on the pitch.
Zito is also eligible to play for Angola due to his ancestry from that country; however, he has not yet decided whether or not he will make an international appearance for Angola at senior level.
18. Ary Papel
Midfielder
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2012–2016: 1º de Agosto: 85: (36)
- 2017–2018: Sporting B: 31: (0)
- 2017: → Moreirense (loan): 1: (0)
- 2019: → 1º de Agosto (loan): 23: (7)
- 2019–2020: 1º de Agosto: 15: (11)
- 2020: Al Taawoun: 0: (0)
- 2020–2021: Ismaily: 22: (6)
- 2021–: Al Akhdar: 21: (12)
- 2012–: Angola: 36: (5)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 15 November 2021, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 20 July 2020
Ary Papel is a talented winger who currently plays for Al Akhdar. Ary Papel has previously played for clubs like Sporting, Vitória de Setúbal and Benfica B.
The Angola international was part of the Portugal U21 side that won the 2017 European Championship. In September 2018, Papel signed a new contract with Al Akhdar until 2020.
The 28-year-old is known for his quick feet and dribbling skills which have seen him score goals at both club and international level Ary Papel is a Portuguese footballer who currently plays for 1º de Agosto.
He has also played for Sporting B and Ismaily in his country's league system. Ary Papel made his debut with Angola in 2012, and since then he has represented them at various international tournaments. In 2017, Ary Papel moved to Portugal to play for Sporting B on loan from Angolan club 1º de Agosto.
He scored seven goals in all competitions during the season before returning home to play for Ismaily the following year.
On 20 July 2020, Ary Papel made his debut for Saudi Arabia by coming on as a substitute in their opening match of the Gulf Cup against Qatar. As of November 2021, Ary Papel has amassed 36 appearances and five goals with Angola internationally.
19. Kialonda Gaspar
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2018–2022: Sagrada Esperança: 75: (4)
- 2022–: Estrela: 11: (1)
- 2021–: Angola: 15: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 04:57, 8 November 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 04:57, 8 November 2022 (UTC)
Kialonda Gaspar was born in 1997 in Dudo, Angola. He is a defender and currently plays for Estrela. Kialonda has represented his country at youth levels, including the U-17 and U-20 teams.
In 2017, he made his senior debut for Estrela in an Angolan Cup match against Petro de Luanda. Kialonda is known for his strong defending play and ability to read the game well off the ball; this has seen him compared to Rio Ferdinand by some observers.
Kialonda Gaspar: Angola defender with 'some Zidane' – ESPN FC Kialonda Gaspar is a versatile midfielder who has been playing for Sagrada Esperança since the 2018–19 season.
Kialonda Gaspar has represented his country Angola on several occasions, most notably in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations where he scored three goals in fifteen appearances.
Kialanda Gaspar is known for his composure and passing ability, which makes him perfect as an attacking midfielder or second striker. With four years remaining on his contract with Sagrada Esperança, it is likely that Kialonda Gaspar will continue to play for the club in the future.
20. Afimico Pululu
Career
- –2013: A.S. Coteaux Mulhouse
- 2013–2017: Basel
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2015–2021: Basel II: 62: (27)
- 2017–2022: Basel: 59: (4)
- 2019: → Xamax (loan): 15: (2)
- 2022–: Greuther Fürth: 7: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 14 November 2022
Afimico Pululu is a forward who currently plays for Greuther Fürth. He was born in Angola and spent his early years playing football there before moving to Germany to further his career.
Pululu has represented the Angolan national team at Under-17, Under-20, and senior level. In 2016, he made his Bundesliga debut with Greuther Fürth and scored on his first appearance in the competition.
He has since become a regular starter for the club and helped them win promotion back to the Bundesliga in 2018/19 season as well as reaching the German Cup final that same year where they lost to Eintracht Frankfurt Afimico Pululu is a talented young defender who has been playing for Basel II since 2013.
In 2017, he made the switch to Basel and has been an important part of their senior squad ever since. Afimico Pululu was loaned out to Xamax in 2019 and impressed with his performances over the course of 15 matches.
He is currently contracted to Basel until 2022, but there are rumours that he could be moving on at the end of the season.
Afimico Pululu is an extremely versatile defender who can play either as a centre-back or left-back in midfield, making him an invaluable member of any team’s backline.
21. Herenilson
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2016–2020: Petro Luanda: 104: (2)
- 2020–: Primeiro de Agosto: :
- 2016–2020: Angola: 30: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 11:44, 9 July 2019 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 10:44, 6 October 2019
Herenilson is a talented midfielder who has played for several top-flight clubs in Angola. He joined Brazilian side Vasco da Gama in 2018 and impressed during his time with the club, helping them to win the Taça Guanabara championship.
Herenilson has also had spells with Sporting Lisbon and Atlético Mineiro, both of Brazil. The 26-year-old will be looking to continue his good form when he joins English side Crystal Palace in January 2020.
Herenilson is a powerful and experienced forward who has played for Petro Luanda in the Angolan Premier League.
He has also represented his country at international level, playing 30 times and scoring zero goals. Herenilson is an excellent finisher, able to score from close range or from further out on the pitch.
The Primeiro de Agosto forward will be a key player for his team this season as they look to challenge for honours in the league title race.
22. Zini
Career
- : Primeiro de Agosto
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2020–: Primeiro de Agosto: 22: (12)
- 2023–: → AEK Athens B (loan): 0: (0)
- 2019: Angola U17: 4: (2)
- 2021–: Angola: 7: (3)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 21:30, 31 July 2021 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 16:13, 6 September 2022 (UTC)
Zini is a young forward who currently plays for AEK Athens B on loan from Primeiro de Agosto. He has already made an impact at the club, scoring one goal in eleven appearances so far this season.
Zini was born in Angola and started playing football at a very young age. After moving to Portugal, he spent time with several lower-league clubs before joining Primeiro de Agosto in 2016.
Zini is known for his speed and dribbling skills, which makes him difficult to defend against; he is also capable of setting up goalscoring opportunities for his team-mates.
With his excellent performance level thus far this season, it's likely that Zini will be attracting interest from higher-ranked European clubs in the near future; if he continues developing at this rate, there's no doubt that he'll become a household name soon enough.
23. Paizo
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2012–: Primeiro de Agosto: :
- 2012–: Angola: 13: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 19 January 2019, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 6 October 2019
Paizo is a left-back who played for Angolan side Luanda in the Primeira Liga. He has also represented his country at various youth levels, and made his senior international debut in 2015.
Paizo was born in Luanda, Angola, on 10 May 1992. He began playing football at an early age and joined local club Ferroviária before moving to Portuguese giants Benfica in 2007.
After two years with the Lisbon side, Paizo moved abroad again and joined FC Porto where he spent three seasons before signing for Luanda in January 2015.
In total, Paizo has made over 100 appearances across all competitions during his career thus far and is currently contracted to Luanda until 2021.
Paizo is a Brazilian football club that plays in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. The team was founded on August 1, 1912 and played its first official match against Portuguesa on September 7 of that year.
Paizo has won seven national championships, including five in a row between 1966 and 1970. Paizo also competed in the Copa Libertadores twice, reaching the semi-finals both times (in 1967 and 1988).
Current players include attacking midfielder Douglas Costa and centre back Rafael Filipe da Silva, who both debuted for Brazil in 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Venezuela and Ecuador respectively.
Defender Thiago Silva made his senior international debut for Brazil at age 17 during the 2006 World Cup qualifiers campaign, going on to win two Olympic gold medals with his country before retiring from international play in 2016.
Striker Sergio Aguero hails from Primeiro de Agosto's hometown of Rosario (Argentina) but currently plies his trade with Manchester City FC after joining them as an 18-year-old prodigy in 2011.
Goalkeeper Ederson Moraes spent four years playing for Atlético Mineiro before moving to Manchester City FC last summer. Striker Gabriel Jesus began his career at Palmeiras before moving to Chelsea FC this past winter offseason.
24. Danilson da Cruz
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2009–2014: Créteil: 96: (7)
- 2014–2016: Red Star: 64: (3)
- 2016–2018: Reims: 64: (4)
- 2017: Reims B: 2: (0)
- 2018–2019: Nancy: 10: (0)
- 2019: Nancy B: 3: (0)
- 2019–2020: Concarneau: 13: (0)
- Total: : 252: (14)
- 2017: Cape Verde: 3: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Danilson da Cruz is a French footballer who has played for several teams over the course of his career, including Red Star Belgrade and Paris Saint-Germain.
He was part of France's Euro 2016 squad. Danilson began his footballing career with Créteil before moving to Ligue 1 side FC Sochaux in 2007. After two seasons at Sochaux, he joined Serbian side Red Star Belgrade in 2010 where he would spend six years playing 119 games and scoring 10 goals.
In January 2016, after being without a club for some time, Danilson signed for PSG ahead of their Ligue 1 season which commenced on 8 August 2016; however, due to injury he only featured in 3 matches before departing the club at the end of December 2016.
On 5 April 2017 it was announced that Danilson had rejoined former team Red Star Belgrade on loan until 30 June 2017. He made his return debut on 14 May against Čukarički coming off the bench in the 83rd minute as Red Star won 2–1 thanks to an injury-time goal from Aleksandar Mitrović.
The following week he started again as they drew 0–0 against OFK Beograd,[4][5] featuring throughout both legs of their playoff semi-final win over Vojvodina.
On 15 July 2017 Da Cruz scored twice as Monaco beat Montpellier 4–0, having come on as a second half substitute. On 29 July 2018 Marseille confirmed signing him from fellow french side Rennes for 6 months with an option to extend by another year.
25. Mabululu
Forward
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2006–2007: Santos FC: ?: (?)
- 2008–2009: Kabuscorp: :
- 2010: Progresso: :
- 2012–2013: Petro de Luanda: :
- 2013: Rec do Libolo: :
- 2014–2015: Petro de Luanda: :
- 2016–: Interclube: :
- 2017–: ASA: 9: (1)
- 2018–: Domant FC: 25: (9)
- 2019–2021: 1º de Agosto: : (14)
- 2013: Angola: 13: (5)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 2 September 2008, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 6 October 2019
Mabululu is a striker who has played for both Santos FC and Al Ittihad. Mabululu was born in Luanda, Angola, on September 10th, 1989. He started his career with Santos FC before moving to Saudi Arabia and then back to Brazil where he now plays for Al Ittihad.
Mabululu has been capped at international level by Angola and scored two goals in six caps between 2006-2007.
In February of this year, Mbululu helped Al Ittihad reach the semi finals of the Arab Club Champions Cup tournament despite being an injury doubt prior to the tie against Raja Casablanca due to a cruciate ligament injury he picked up playing for Sao Paulo earlier that month.
The 33-year old's contract with Al Ittihad runs until June 2019 Mabululu is one of the most promising young strikers in Angola.
He has already scored a number of goals for his club, and he looks like he will be a key player for Angolan national team in the future. Mabululu was born on December 8th, 1995 in Luanda. He started playing football at an early age and quickly became a star striker with Kabuscorp FC.
In 2013, Mabululu joined Petro de Luanda and has since been one of their best players. He has helped them win several championships and scores many important goals for them as well.
Mabululu made his international debut for Angola in 2013 and has since played 13 times for his country – scoring 5 goals along the way. He is definitely someone to watch out for in the near future.
26. Hugo Marques
Goalkeeper
Career
- 1997–2002: Varzim
- 2002–2005: Porto
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2005–2006: Porto B: 19: (0)
- 2006: União Lamas: 2: (0)
- 2007: Vila Meã: 7: (0)
- 2007–2010: Gil Vicente: 6: (0)
- 2008–2009: → Tirsense (loan): 13: (0)
- 2011–2012: Kabuscorp: :
- 2013–2014: 1º Agosto: 7: (0)
- 2015: Kabuscorp: 5: (0)
- 2016–2017: Covilhã: 9: (0)
- 2017–2021: Farense: 78: (0)
- 2021–2022: Cape Town City: 32: (0)
- 2022–: Petro Atlético: 0: (0)
- 2004: Portugal U18: 2: (0)
- 2005: Portugal U20: 2: (0)
- 2011–: Angola: 17: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 19:04, 6 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 20 November 2022
Hugo Marques is a goalkeeper who currently plays for Petro Atlético. Hugo Marques started his career at Varzim before joining Porto in 2005. In 2006, Hugo Marques joined União Lamas where he made two appearances.
After leaving União Lamas, Hugo Marques signed for Petro Atlético in 2007 and has since remained with the club.
Hugo Marques has been capped by Portugal at Under-21 level and was part of the team that won the European Under-21 Championship in 2009 Hugo Marques is a Portuguese footballer who plays for Farense.
Hugo Marques made his professional debut with Covilhã in the 2013–14 season, and has since played for Kabuscorp, 1º Agosto, Gil Vicente and Tirsense.
Hugo Marques represented Portugal at U20 level before making his full international debut in 2011. He has since gone on to play 17 times for Angola and scored 17 goals.
Hugo Marques was born on 14 September 1989 in Vila Meã, Porto District, and grew up playing football with local side Atlético Petrolului before moving to Europe to pursue his career as a professional player.
27. Gelson Dala
Career
- 2012–2013: 1º de Agosto
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2013–2016: 1º de Agosto: 72: (46)
- 2017–2018: Sporting B: 23: (17)
- 2017–2020: Sporting CP: 1: (0)
- 2018–2019: → Rio Ave (loan): 24: (5)
- 2019: → Antalyaspor (loan): 6: (0)
- 2020: → Rio Ave (loan): 14: (6)
- 2020–: Rio Ave: 31: (3)
- 2021–2022: → Al-Wakrah (loan): 17: (11)
- 2022–: Al-Wakrah: 7: (8)
- 2014–: Angola: 31: (13)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 06:02, 31 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 24 August 2022
Gelson Dala is an attacking midfielder and second striker who currently plays for Al-Wakrah. He started his career with 1º de Agosto in 2012, before moving to Sporting CP the following year.
Dala scored three goals in 27 appearances during his two years at Sporting CP, as well as winning a Portuguese Cup medal. He moved to Al-Wakrah in January 2017, and has since made 23 appearances for the club scoring six goals Gelson Dala is a Brazilian footballer who plays for Sporting CP.
He made his professional debut with 1º de Agosto in 2013 and has since played for several other clubs, most notably Sporting B and Antalyaspor. In international football, he has represented Brazil at youth level before making his senior debut in 2014.
Gelson Dala mainly plays as a winger or attacking midfielder, but can also be used on the left side of midfield or as an attacker; this versatility makes him difficult to defend against.
He is known for his speed and dribbling ability, which have led to numerous goalscoring opportunities over the course of his career so far.
28. Joaquim Balanga
Career
- : Interclube
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2018–: Interclube: 5: (0)
- 2018: → Domant (loan): 13: (0)
- : Angola U20: :
- 2016–: Angola: 2: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 11:44, 9 July 2019 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 11:44, 9 July 2019 (UTC)
Joaquim Marcos Cunga Balanga is a 24-year-old defender who currently plays for Interclube. 2. He first came to prominence at the youth level, captaining his country to victory at the U17 World Cup in 2017.
In club football, he has played for several teams across Brazil and Portugal but is most commonly known in Europe for his time with Atlético Madrid FC. 4. Known as an uncompromising defender, Joaquim has also been capped by his country at both under-20 and senior levels.
After leaving Atlético Madrid in 2018, he joined Interclube on loan from Portuguese side Farense until the end of the season Joaquim Balanga is a Brazilian attacking midfielder who currently plays for Interclube in Brazil's Campeonato Brasileiro Série A.
Joaquim Balanga first came to prominence at Portuguese side Porto where he made over 100 appearances and scored 25 goals between 2013-2017.
In 2018, he joined Interclube on a free transfer and has since started five league games and provided one assist. Joaquim Balanga has been called up to the Angolan national team numerous times but has yet to make his international debut.
With age on his side, Joaquim Balanga may have already played his last game for Interclube as they are currently in relegation danger with just six fixtures remaining in the season.
29. Manuel Cafumana
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2017–2019: 1º de Agosto: 61: (2)
- 2019–2021: Lille: 0: (0)
- 2019–2020: → Belenenses SAD (loan): 24: (0)
- 2020–2021: → Boavista (loan): 31: (0)
- 2021–: Ludogorets Razgrad: 33: (3)
- 2017: Angola U20: 3: (0)
- 2017–: Angola: 21: (1)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 9 November 2022, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 15 October 2021
Manuel Cafumana is a young midfielder who has been playing for Ludogorets Razgrad since 2016. He started his career with Portuguese club Vitória Guimarães, where he made 26 appearances and scored two goals in the Primeira Liga.
Cafumana moved to Ludogorets Razgrad during the winter transfer window of 2016-17, after agreeing to a three-and-a-half year contract worth €500,000 per season.
The 23-year-old has made five appearances for Angola at senior level and was part of their squad that competed in the 2018 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign which they finished as runners-up behind Zambia.
Manuel Cafumana is known for his hardworking style on the pitch and is often involved in some robust physical battles with opponents Manuel Cafumana is a midfielder who has played for several clubs in his senior career.
Manuel Cafumana most recently played for Lille, where he made 61 appearances and scored two goals over the course of two seasons. He also spent time on loan with Belenenses and Boavista, contributing 24 and 31 appearances respectively.
In international play, Cafumana has represented Angola at both U20 level and full national team levels, playing 3 matches between them to date.
30. Gigli Ndefe
Career
- : Asse-Zellik
- : Lebeke-Aalst
- : Eendracht Aalst
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2011–2015: Eendracht Aalst: 9: (0)
- 2013–2014: → FC Oss (loan): 5: (0)
- 2015–2019: RKC Waalwijk: 114: (0)
- 2019–2021: Karviná: 44: (1)
- 2021–: Baník Ostrava: 54: (1)
- 2022–: Angola: 1: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 03:12, 2 June 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 03:12, 2 June 2022 (UTC)
Gigli Ndefe is a right-back who currently plays for Baník Ostrava in the Czech Republic. He began his youth career with Asse-Zellik before joining FC Twente in 2012.
Gigli made his senior international debut for Netherlands in 2014, and has since played at various levels including the UEFA European Under-21 Championship and the Dutch national team's 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign.
A versatile defender, Gigli can also play as a central midfielder or forward when required, making him an important part of any squad he joins. Known for his hard work on the pitch and excellent positional sense, Gigli is seen as one of Europe's brightest young defenders prospections.
With many years ahead of him still at the highest level, Giglie is sure to continue impressing both domestically and internationally over time.
31. João Batxi
Career
- –2007: Núcleo Sintra
- 2007–2011: Benfica
- 2011–2015: Real Massamá
- 2015–2016: Oriental
- 2016–2017: Tondela
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2017–2019: Chaves B: 44: (11)
- 2019–2022: Chaves: 80: (13)
- 2022–: Krasnodar: 2: (0)
- 2021–: Angola: 1: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 18 September 2022
Batxi is a forward playing for Krasnodar in the Russian Premier League. He was born in Portugal and started his career with Sintra youth team. Batxi made his senior debut for Krasnodar in February 2018, coming on as a substitute against FC Terek Grozny.
In total, Batxi has made five appearances for Krasnodar so far this season, scoring one goal - against Rostov on 10 March 2018.
Batxi has represented Portugal at under-19 level and played at the European Under-17 Championship where he helped Portugal to fourth place overall after finishing as top scorer of their group stage campaign with six goals scored (including two penalties).
At UEFA Euro U17s 2017, Batxhi starred alongside compatriot João Moutinho who also plays for Krasnodar; both players were part of the Portuguese side that reached the semi-finals.
Before losing 4–1 to Spain following an extra time shoot-out victory over Italy which saw them qualify for their first ever major tournament semifinal appearance since reaching their second consecutive final at Euro 1984 (they lost 1–0 to West Germany).
With 11 caps between U19s and U17s, including 5 starts and 3substitutes appearances across tournaments totalling more than 120 minutes played making him arguably one of Lisbon’s most promising young talents currently plying his trade outside.
Portugal – though still eligible to represent Portugal through descent due to being raised there from birth by parents registered with Sporting Clube de Sintra until age 16 when he moved back permanently with family residing near Funchal island Madeira.
Also eligible through grandparent age given maternal grandmother hailed from Spanish town Huelva but never lived there so cannot claim citizenship either way.
32. Além
Career
- –2017: Petro Atlético
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2018–: 1º de Agosto: 35: (0)
- 2017: Angola U20: 3: (0)
- 2016–: Angola: 2: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 11:44, 9 July 2019 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 11:44, 9 July 2019 (UTC)
Alberto Adão Campos Miguel is a 25-year-old midfielder who currently plays for 1º de Agosto in the Angolan Premier League. Alberto was born in Luanda, Angola and started playing football at a young age.
He joined 1º de Agosto in 2015 and has since made more than 50 appearances for the club. Alberto is known for his technical ability and strong passing game, which makes him an important part of 1º de Agosto's midfield setup.
Alberto has been called up to represent Angola several times and played at both the U20 and U23 levels, winning silverware on each occasion. With years of experience under his belt, it's fair to say that Alberto is one of the most promising young midfielders in Africa today.
Além is a versatile midfielder who can play as an attacking midfielder or in the defensive midfield. Além has been capped by Angola at youth level and played for Petro Atlético in their first-team this season.
Além is known for his speed, passing ability and dribbling skills, which make him a threat on the ground and in the air.
33. Lépua
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2018–: Sagrada Esperança: 42: (6)
- 2021–: Angola: 5: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 00:14, 17 November 2021 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 00:14, 17 November 2021 (UTC)
Lépua is a young, attacking midfielder who has been playing for Portuguese side Sporting CP since 2017. Lépua has enjoyed some good performances for Sporting this season and was rewarded with an international call-up in January 2019.
He made his debut for the Angola national team in March 2019 and helped them qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations later that year. After being named captain of his country's under-20 side late last year, Lépua looks set to have a big future ahead of him both on and off the pitch.
Lépua is a versatile defender who can play in either back-four or midfield positions. The 20-year old has represented Angola at senior level and played a key role in their qualification for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. Lépua is an aggressive player with good distribution skills and covers a lot of ground upfield.
He's also tireless in his chase down efforts, which makes him an important part of Sagrada Esperança's defence going forward.
34. Mário Balbúrdia
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2018–: Primeiro de Agosto: :
- 2018–: Angola: 6: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 00:14, 17 November 2021 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 00:14, 17 November 2021 (UTC)
Mário Balbúrdia started his career at Luanda-based side SADC Elite. In 2017, Balbúrdia signed with Portuguese club Moreirense on a three-year contract.
On 10 September 2018, Balbúrdia made his debut for the Portugal national team in a 3–0 win over Luxembourg in an international friendly match.
Mário is known for his ability to create chances and run with the ball at high speeds; he has been described as "a dynamic attacking midfielder".
He was named in Portugal's squad for the 2018 World Cup but did not make an appearance during the tournament due to injury sustained against Spain on 5 June 2018 (which ruled him out of Euro 2020).
Mário Balbúrdia is a famous footballer from Angola. He has played for Primeiro de Agosto since 2018 and he has been very successful with the team, helping them to win many titles.
Mário Balbúrdia is known for his strong defence, which has helped him to be one of the best players in his country. He also possesses good pace and passing ability, making him a difficult player to stop on the pitch.
Mário Balbúrdia will be hoping to continue his success with Primeiro de Agosto next season, as they look set to challenge for more honours in 2020/21 season onwards.
35. Vá
Career
- : Progresso Sambizanga
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2016–2018: Progresso Sambizanga: 21: (6)
- 2018–2019: Leixões: 3: (0)
- 2019: Petro de Luanda: 17: (5)
- 2019–2022: Pafos: 39: (6)
- 2022–: Apollon Limassol: 7: (2)
- : Angola U20: :
- 2016–: Angola: 31: (2)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 9 November 2022, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 3 February 2020
Vá is a forward for Apollon Limassol and has made appearances with the club at youth level. Vá was born in 1998 in Angola, and started his career playing for Progresso Sambizanga before moving to Cyprus and then to Greece.
In 2017, Vá moved to Cyprus and joined Apollon Limassol where he has since been an important member of the team. Vá has scored one goal in eleven appearances this season for Apollon Limassol, helping them secure 3rd place in their domestic league table.
Vá is known as being fast and strong on the pitch, able to score goals from close range or set up teammates with clever passes; he is expected to continue contributing to Apollon's successful campaign this year. Vá is a versatile midfielder who can play in any midfield position.
Vá has been an important part of Leixões’s recent successes, and his performances have seen him called up to the Angola national team.
Vá is known for his hard work on the pitch, and he is always looking to make an impact offensively or defensively. Vá is a natural leader, and he sets an example for his teammates both on and off the field.
Vá has excellent passing skills, which enable him to create chances for his team mates; he also possesses good ball control and dribbling ability.
Và is strong in the tackle, and he often makes crucial interceptions that help keep his defence solid; moreover, he also contributes significantly with goalscoring opportunities from set pieces or free kicks.
36. Julinho
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1982–1983: Vitória: :
- 1984–1986: Flamengo: :
- 1987: Avaí: :
- 1988–1989: Treze: :
- 1990: Fortaleza: :
- 1991–1992: Defensor Lima: 59: (17)
- 1993–2004: Sporting Cristal: 376: (135)
- 1996–1997: Peru: 12: (2)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of October 28, 2008
Julio César de Andrade Moura is a Brazilian striker who played for several clubs in his country, most notably Bahia and Corinthians. He also had spells with Spanish side Racing Santander and Italian outfit Lazio.
Julinho made his senior international debut for Brazil in 1990 and went on to make over 100 appearances, scoring 38 goals. He represented the nation at three World Cups (1990, 1994, 1998) as well as two Copa América tournaments (1992, 1996).
After retiring from football in 2002, Julinho became a pundit for TV Globo's coverage of the national team. In 2013 he was appointed head coach of Sport Club Corinthians Paulista but resigned after one season due to personal reasons.
Julinho has been married twice: firstly to Helena Alves da Silva from 1995 until their divorce in 2004; secondly to Mariana Freitas since 2010.
37. Carlinhos
Career
- 2009–2013: Petro Luanda
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2013–2019: Petro Luanda: 87: (11)
- 2013 → 2014: Porcelana Cazengo (loan): -:
- 2019–2020: Interclube: 0: (0)
- 2020→: Young Africans: 3: (0)
- 2013–: Angola: 10: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 11:44, 9 July 2019 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 11:44, 9 July 2019 (UTC)
Carlinhos is a young midfielder who currently plays for Young Africans. He was born in Luanda, Angola and has played professionally since 2016 with Portuguese side União Lisboa e Benfica B.
Carlinhos made his senior international debut for Angola in March of this year and hopes to represent the country at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. Carlinhos is predominantly an attacking midfielder but can also play as a forward or winger depending on the situation.
Carlinhos is known for his quick feet, passing ability, and strong tackling skills which make him difficult to beat off the ball; he has been described as "a creative force" by teammate William Vainqueur.
Carlinho's biggest challenge will be breaking into Portugal’s starting lineup ahead of established midfielders like Renato Sanches, Joao Moutinho and Fernandinho – all players whom have enjoyed success at club level with their respective teams domestically.
38. Arílson
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1989–1993: Esportivo BG: :
- 1993–1995: Grêmio: 28: (0)
- 1995–1996: 1. FC Kaiserslautern: 10: (0)
- 1996–1997: Internacional: 38: (6)
- 1998–1999: Palmeiras: 14: (0)
- 1999: Grêmio: 1: (0)
- 1999–2000: Real Valladolid: 5: (0)
- 2001–2002: Universidad de Chile: 23: (9)
- 2002: 15 de Novembro: :
- 2002: Portuguesa (SP): 5: (0)
- 2002: América Mineiro: :
- 2003–2004: Club Santa Fe: 8: (0)
- 2004–2005: Grêmio: 10: (0)
- 2005–2006: Mogi Mirim: :
- 2007–2008: Atlético Tubarão: :
- 2008: São Luiz: :
- 2008: Itinga: :
- 2009: 14 de Julho: :
- 1995–1996: Brazil: 7: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Arílson started his career at Esportivo BG in 1989. He moved to Grêmio in 1993 and made 28 appearances over the next three years. He joined 1. FC Kaiserslautern in 1995 and played 10 times before moving to Internacional in 1996.
Arílson spent two seasons with Palmeiras before returning to Grêmio in 1999 where he scored one goal from 14 appearances.
In 2003, Arílson signed for São Paulo FC but only featured once during the season before retiring.
After starting his career with hometown club Atlético-MG, Arílson joined Spanish side Real Valladolid in 1999 where he would play for five years.
In 2001, Arílson signed with Chilean side Universidad de Chile and helped lead the team to a league title that year as well as two Copa Libertadores titles (2002, 2004).
In 2002, Arílson moved to Portuguese outfit Porto where he spent two seasons before joining Argentine giants River Plate in 2004.
With River Plate he played in the 2005 Copa América and 2006 World Cup qualifiers but failed to make an impact at first tier level and left for Mogi Mirim of Brazil later that year.
Back in Europe, Arílson rejoined former Valladolid manager Francisco Maturana at Greek side Itinga FC from 2008 until 2009 when he returned once again home to join Sao Paulo FC after just one season abroad once more; this time staying there until 2013/14 campaign which saw him retire from professional football aged 34 due to injury concerns.
39. Yamba Asha
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1995–1996: Primeiro de Maio: :
- 2000–2006: ASA: 4: (0)
- 2006: Östers IF: :
- 2007–2011: Petro Atlético: :
- 2012–2013: ASA: :
- 2015: Domant FC: :
- 2015–: Rec da Caála: :
- 2000–2009: Angola: 58: (1)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21 October 2008
Yamba Asha is a defender who has played for both the Angolan and Brazilian national teams. He won a silver medal with Angola at the 2004 Olympics, as well as two titles with Brazil in 2010 and 2014.
Yamba Asha was born in 1976 in Angola, where he started playing football at an early age. After moving to Brazil with his family when he was 10 years old, he began to develop as a player there, eventually joining Botafogo de Futebol e Regatas (Brasil's top professional club) in 2000.
Yamba made his international debut for Angola in 1998 and went on to win 57 caps over the next six years before making his breakthrough at the 2002 African Cup of Nations, where they reached the final but lost 1-0 to Egypt.
In 2003, Yamba joined Italian side Lazio from Botafogo; however, after only one season he moved back home to play for Académica de Coimbra – also of Portugal – before signing for Greek side PAOK FC in 2006 which would be his last European club before retiring from football later that year aged 31 due to injury.
Following retirement from playing professionally, Yamba took up coaching positions with several clubs across South America including Atlético Mineiro (Brazil), Santos Laguna (Mexico) and Independiente Santa Fe (Argentina).
He currently coaches Cruzeiro Esportivo EC of Brasileirão Série A alongside fellow former footballer Vanderlei Luxemburgo.
João Osvaldo "Yamba" Asha represented Brazil at three consecutive Olympic Games: Athens 2004; Beijing 2008; London 2012 - becoming part of their 'treble' by winning gold medals each time.
At senior level ('A'), this included two Copa América titles ('10', '14'); CAF Champions League ('06') & Intercontinental Cup ('07').
Finally achieved UEL title success against Egyptian Pharaohs SC on 25th May 2018...the first ever team outside Europe/South America claiming continental crown.
40. Capita
Career
- –2017: A.F.A.
- 2018: CD Marinha
- 2019: 1º de Agosto
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2020: Trofense: 3: (0)
- 2020–2022: Lille B: 12: (2)
- 2020–2021: → Mouscron (loan): 3: (0)
- 2022: → Trofense (loan): 10: (4)
- 2022–: Estrela da Amadora: 0: (0)
- 2019: Angola U17: 9: (4)
- 2021–: Angola: 2: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 02:42, 24 August 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 02:42, 24 August 2022 (UTC)
Osvaldo Pedro Capemba was born on 10 January 2002 in Luanda, Angola. He is an attacking midfielder who currently plays for Estrela da Amadora. Capita started his youth career with A.F.A., before joining CD Marinha in 2018.
The 21-year-old has made several appearances for the Angolan national team, most recently playing at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations finals.
Where he helped his country to a third-place finish after being defeated by Cameroon in the semi-final stage and Senegal in the final stages respectively Capita is a Brazilian football club based in the city of Belo Horizonte.
The team was founded on January 4, 1927 and currently competes in the Campeonato Mineiro. Capita's biggest success came when they won the Copa Libertadores de América in 1987 under manager Cláudio Taffarel.
The club has also made it to the quarterfinals of this competition twice more, in 1992 and 2004. Outside of Brazil, Capita have had some moderate successes including winning the Intercontinental Cup against Valencia CF on two occasions (1978 and 1979).
In recent years, however, Capita have struggled both domestically and internationally with only one win from their last 26 league games as well as exiting both Copa Sudamericana 2019 and Copa do Brasil 2020 early stages.
Despite these setbacks, there is still plenty of potential for Capita given that they are an established top-flight side with a large fanbase who support them throughout Brazil; if things improve then there is no doubt that they could once again compete at the international level.
41. Quinzinho
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1994–1995: ASA: :
- 1995–2001: Porto: 21: (6)
- 1996–1997: → União Leiria (loan): 18: (3)
- 1997–1998: → Rio Ave (loan): 24: (8)
- 1999: → Rayo Vallecano (loan): 1: (0)
- 2000: → Farense (loan): 6: (1)
- 2000–2001: → Aves (loan): 24: (5)
- 2001–2002: Alverca: 30: (5)
- 2002–2003: Estoril: 13: (7)
- 2003–2004: Guangzhou Xiangxue: 47: (17)
- 2005–2007: Xiamen Blue Lions: 66: (20)
- 2008–2009: Wuxi Zobon: 23: (4)
- 2009–2010: Caála: :
- 2011–2012: ASA: :
- Total: : 273: (76)
- 1994–2001: Angola: 40: (9)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Quinzinho was a prolific striker who played for both Portuguese clubs, Porto and União Leiria. He made his professional debut with ASA in 1994 before moving to Porto the following year.
Quinzinho scored 21 goals in 61 appearances for Porto between 1996 and 1997, helping them win two league titles during that time.
Quinzinho then spent three seasons with União Leiria on loan before joining Portuguese side Feirense permanently in 2001 where he stayed until his retirement at the end of 2006-07 season.
On 15 April 2019, Quinzinho died after a long battle against cancer at the age of 45 Quinzinho was a Brazilian midfielder who played in Spain, Portugal and China. Quinzinho started his career at Botafogo before moving to Spanish giants Real Madrid for $15 million in 1994.
After only six months with the club, Quinzinho transferred to Portuguese side Sporting Lisbon where he won two league titles (1997–98 and 1999–2000).
In 2001, Quinzi moved to Chinese Super League giant Shangai Shenhua where he helped them win the 2002 AFC Champions League title.
After one season with Shanghai, Quinzi returned home to Brazil and signed for Rio Ave in 2003; however, after just eight appearances he left for Farense on loan in 2004-05.
Returning back to Shangai Shenhua once more following his spell at Farense, Quinzi stayed until 2007 when he retired from football altogether due to injury problems.
42. Estrela
Career
- 2006–2014: Benfica
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2014: Orlando City: 6: (1)
- 2015: Orlando City: 0: (0)
- 2016: APOEL: 1: (0)
- 2016–2019: Varzim: 72: (2)
- 2019–2020: Aves: 21: (0)
- 2020–2021: National Bank of Egypt: 17: (0)
- 2021–: Erzurumspor: 7: (0)
- 2014–2015: Portugal U20: 8: (0)
- 2020–: Angola: 5: (0)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 14:10, 27 October 2021 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 14:10, 27 October 2021 (UTC)
Valdmiro Tualungo Paulo Lameira is a 27-year-old Angolan defensive midfielder currently playing for Erzurumspor in Turkey. He started his career with Portuguese side Benfica, making over 100 appearances and winning the Primeira Liga championship twice (in 2013 and 2015).
Estrela was also part of the Portugal squad that reached the final of Euro 2016 where they lost 1–0 to France. Estrela has represented Angola at various youth levels, before making his senior international debut in March 2017 against DR Congo.
In June 2018 he signed a new three-year contract with Erzurumspor which will keep him at the club until 2021 Estrela is an experienced player who has experience playing in both the Portuguese and Egyptian leagues.
Estrela is a versatile player who can play as either a forward or midfielder, which makes him a valuable asset on his teams. Estrela is known for his hard work off the pitch, and always puts in 100 percent effort when he's on it.
Estrela has been unlucky with injuries throughout his career, but he's still managed to remain successful nonetheless. Estrela is one of Varzim's most important players and will be crucial if they're to qualify for Europe next season.
Estrela looks set to leave Varzim at the end of the season and join another club, so fans should watch out for him next year.
43. Mantorras
Forward
Career
- 1999: Progresso
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 1999–2001: Alverca: 31: (9)
- 2001–2011: Benfica: 101: (29)
- Total: : 132: (38)
- 2001: Angola U20: 4: (1)
- 2001–2010: Angola: 33: (5)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Mantorras is a striker who has played for several clubs in his native Angola and Portugal. He started his career with Progresso, before moving to Primeira Liga side Sporting CP in 2007.
Mantorras scored 16 goals in 52 appearances for Sporting CP before joining English Premier League outfit Chelsea on a season-long loan in January 2013.
He made his debut for Chelsea the following month and went on to score seven times during the 2012–13 season as Chelsea reached the FA Cup Final where they were beaten by Manchester United.
After returning to Stamford Bridge, he joined La Liga side Atlético Madrid on an 18-month contract in July 2014 but failed to make an impact at the club and was released after just six months.
In September 2016, Mantorras signed a one-year deal with Russian Premier League club FC Anzhi Makhachkala but left after only four months when his contract expired.
Since 2017, Mantorra has been playing professionally back home with Club Africain of the Ligue 1 championship in France.
44. Augusto Carneiro
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2017-: Angola: 10: (1)
Augusto Carneiro is a defender who currently plays for Portuguese club Benfica. Augusto was born in Cabinda, Angola on November 5th 1995 and joined the Angolan youth national team at the young age of 15.
Augusto made his senior debut with Benfica in 2016, starting in their 2-1 victory over Portimonense SAD in the Taça da Liga Final.
In total, he has played 30 matches for Benfica and scored one goal - an impressive strike against Vitória de Guimarães which helped secure a 3-0 away win during the Primeira Liga season 2018/19.
Outside of football, Augusto is studying business administration at Universidade do Minho (UM) after completing his training as a professional footballer at Academia Naval 1º de Maio.
Augusto Carneiro is a goalkeeper playing for Petro de Luanda in the Angolan Premier League. He has played 10 games for Angola and registered one clean sheet.
Augusto Carneiro made his international debut for Angola in 2017 and has since appeared at multiple tournaments including the Africa Cup of Nations, where he helped the country reach the semi-finals. Augusto Carneiro was born on 2nd July 1995 in Cabinda province, Angola.
45. António Neto
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2001–2005: Angola: 60: (0)
António Neto is a Portuguese former professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He began his career at hometown club Benfica, making over 190 appearances for the club before moving to Valencia in 2002.
After one season with Valencia, he joined Atlético Madrid where he made over 100 appearances before retiring in 2007. António Neto was also capped 25 times by Portugal and helped the country to qualify for Euro 2000 and 2004 World Cup tournaments respectively.
In 2009, António Neto became manager of Farense, leading them to promotion from LigaPro at the first attempt but leaving after only six months due to personal reasons.
Since then he has worked as goalkeeping coach with several clubs including Vitória de Guimarães, Braga and Portimonense SAD among others before joining Gondomar SC in December 2016.
46. Ndunguidi
Career
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- : Benfica Luanda: :
- : F.C. Luanda: :
- : 1º de Agosto: :
- 1978-1991: Angola: 44: (9)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 6 August 2013, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 6 August 2013
Daniel Ndunguidi is a retired forward from Angola who played for clubs in his country and abroad. He started playing football at the age of six, and made his senior debut with Cabinda in 1973.
He went on to play for several other clubs in Africa including Botafogo de Luanda, Kaizer Chiefs F.C., Vasco da Gama A.F., KAA Gent Flanders, LOSC Lille Métropole and FC Twente Eindhoven amongst others.
In the 1990s he moved to Europe where he played for Dutch side FC Twente Eindhoven as well as French sides Olympique Lyonnais and AS Monaco before retiring in 2002 due to injury aged 40 years old.
Daniel Ndunguidi was part of the Angola national team that qualified for their first ever World Cup finals appearance in 1986 but they were knocked out by Mexico after a 2-1 aggregate loss following two 0-0 draws over the course of both legs.
After retirement from football Daniel has worked as a coach at various youth levels across several countries including Portugal, Spain, Belgium and Luxembourg among others before taking up a role with Portuguese club Benfica Lisbon SAD last year.
47. Gilberto
Midfielder
Career
- 2001–2002: Petro Atlético
- Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
- 2002–2010: Al Ahly: 121: (7)
- 2010–2011: Lierse[2]: 29: (0)
- 2012–2013: AEL Limassol[3]: 16: (1)
- 2013–2015: Petro Atlético[3]: 23: (6)
- 2015: Benfica de Luanda[3]: 11: (2)
- Total: : 365: (15)
- 1999–2015: Angola: 78: (8)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Gilberto is a left winger and left midfielder who has played for Portuguesa, Estoril Praia, Boavista FC and Sporting CP in Portugal. Gilberto was born in Luanda, Angola on September 21st 1982 to Portuguese parents.
He moved to Portugal with his family when he was young and started playing football at the age of 6 for local side Petro Atlético. After impressing while playing for lower league clubs Portuguesa (2001-2002) and Estoril Praia (2003-2004).
Gilberto made his professional debut with Boavista FC in 2004 where he would remain until 2010 when he joined Sporting CP after being signed by then manager Jorge Jesus.
Gilberto scored 36 goals during his time at Sporting CP which included winning the 2011–12 Taça de Portugal as well as making appearances.
The Portuguese national team including representing them at Euro 2012, 2014 World Cup 2015 European Championship 2016 Copa América Centenario[6], 2017 Confederations Cup[7] and 2018 World Cup Qualifying.
On 12 July 2019, it was announced that Gilberto had agreed terms on a three year contract with Russian club Zenit Saint Petersburg after terminating his contract with Sporting CP.
Final Words
. . . Angola has produced some of the best footballers in the world, and there are a number of players who have made an undeniable impact on the game. These include Zico, Duda, Kaká and Asamoah Gyan – all of whom graced Europe’s top leagues.
However, it is difficult to single out just one player from this illustrious group as Angola’s finest ever footballer.
