In a thrilling African derby, Angola clinched a nail-biting victory against Guinea in Group IV of the President’s Cup at North Macedonia 2024. Bernardeth Carla Belo’s last-second free throw conversion secured Angola’s third win in the tournament. Despite a strong performance from Guinea, Angola emerged victorious, topping the group.
The match had a slow start, with no goals in the first three minutes. Although Angola initially breached Guinea’s defense, it was Guinea who took the early lead. Mabinty Bangoura’s impressive saves (4 out of 6) helped Guinea to a 5:3 advantage. However, turnovers from hasty attacks prevented them from widening the gap, allowing Angola to level the score after 20 minutes, thanks to two consecutive goals by left wing Elisandra Pedro.
Guinea regained momentum with a 4:0 run between the 21st and 28th minutes, setting a 10:6 lead. Despite some setbacks, they maintained an 11:8 lead at halftime.
Angola came back strong in the second half, changing the game’s pace significantly. A blistering 4:0 run gave Angola their first lead since the initial 1:0 at the start. From then on, Guinea trailed, trying to catch up with key players Mariama Bangoura and the Alkaloid Player of the Match, Mayelie Soumah.
In a tense final minute, Belo netted for a 22:21 lead with 40 seconds remaining. Mariama Bangoura equalized, giving Guinea hope. However, Angola held possession, strategically securing a free throw. Belo’s seventh goal of the game sealed a stunning victory for Angola.
With this win, Angola secured first place in Group IV and will advance to the Placement Matches 17-20, facing Japan next. Guinea will compete for 21st to 24th place, starting against Argentina.
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