Beaumelle Plots Angola’s Return to Africa’s Football Elite

by Lucky Chama · October 7, 2025

Former Zambia national team head coach Patrice Beaumelle has outlined his vision for Angola after being officially unveiled as the new head coach of the Palancas Negras, ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025.

The 47-year-old Frenchman, who previously served as Hervé Renard’s assistant during Angola’s 2010 AFCON campaign in Luanda, returns to familiar territory with a two-year contract aimed at reviving the country’s football fortunes.

Beaumelle’s appointment comes after a stint with Algerian giants MC Alger, where he guided the team in the CAF Champions League. He succeeds Portuguese tactician Pedro Gonçalves and faces the formidable task of leading Angola through a challenging Group B featuring Egypt, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.

“The goal is always to give our best with heart,” Beaumelle told CAF Media. “We will compete in a tough group, facing strong opponents like Egypt, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Only two will qualify, but we believe it is possible.”

The former Ivory Coast coach, who guided the Elephants to the knockout stages of AFCON 2021, stressed that discipline, structure, and trust in local talent will underpin his rebuilding process.

“We have to be humble, work seriously, and let the results speak for themselves,” he said. “Discipline, organization, and belief in Angolan players will be the keys to our success.”

Beaumelle revealed that Angola’s project stood out among several offers, citing his familiarity with African football and his desire to build continuity. “I saw this project as an opportunity for growth. I’ve already spoken to all the players and will soon travel to observe both foreign-based and domestic talent,” he added.

Joining his technical team are assistant coach Saad Ishalalen and fitness coach Olivier Martinez, both to be based permanently in Angola.

With AFCON Morocco 2025 fast approaching, Beaumelle’s mission is clear — restore Angola’s competitiveness and rekindle the spirit of the team that once stood among Africa’s best.