In the earlier match, in terms of scoring opportunities created, Angola were the better side in the first half with the speedy Eliseu Francisco troubling Lesotho with his dribbling skills.
Francisco scored in the 31st minute when he pounced on the poor clearance to give Angola the lead. Angola kept piling pressure on Lesotho but they could double their lead in the first half despite dominating the game.
To neutralize Angola, Lesotho’s coach made substitutions both in the first and second halves. Lesotho were rejuvenated as there was mobility in the midfield and they got into the final third frequently.
In the 78th minute, the towering attacking midfielder, Dansel Liyun, scored a beautiful header from a corner to increase Angola’s lead.
However, Rethabile Nqoko of Lesotho scored four minutes later to reduce the deficit after taking advantage of the mistake made by one of Angola’s defenders. After this goal, Lesotho put Angola under immense pressure towards the end of the match but could not equalize
The action continues on Thursday with the opening games in Groups B and C.
