Angola’s locally-based national team will travel to South Africa today, 27 December, to begin a 15-day training camp ahead of the 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Rwanda. Palancas Negras returned to camp yesterday after a brief break to spend time with family and loved ones over the Christmas period, having had a preparatory spell in Luanda.

“The start of work was scheduled to be in Lubango, southern Huila province, but it did not happen due to financial difficulties,” lamented coach Romeu Filemon, who nonetheless deemed himself satisfied with their success. Angola’s camp in South Africa will be held in Johannesburg. They have scheduled three practice/friendly matches, including one against the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

The 2016 CHAN will be held from January 16 to February 7. Angola will face DR Congo, Ethiopia and Cameroon in Group B.