The three-time Angolan champions, semi-finalists of the 'Champions' in 2022, under the command of Alexandre Santos, 'fell' in the second qualifying round.
With this elimination, Ricardo Chéu failed in one of the main objectives set by the national emblem, motivating much criticism from the club's fans and members. The Portuguese coach has already apologized to the fans.
“We understand the frustration of our fans. It remains for me, as a leader, to apologize for the elimination. I am a man and I assume responsibilities, as a coach, because I am the one who makes the tactical and technical choices, and I assume these responsibilities”, stated the coach.
The Angolan team was unable to correct their 2-1 defeat at AS Maniema last weekend at home.
“It was a very difficult game for us. Congolese teams are very strong. We had several goal opportunities and didn’t score”, he lamented. “My continuity at Petro de Luanda is signed until June 31st, and I think people trust in what is being done. Unfortunately, we had a bad day”, he concluded.
Sagrada Esperança wins and qualifies for the African Champions League
In the same competition, Sagrada Esperança managed to qualify this Sunday, after beating Nigerians Enugu Rangers at home, 3-1, in the second leg of the second qualifying round.
In Luanda, Sagrada Esperança recovered from a 1-0 defeat in the first leg, thanks to goals scored by Alexandre, in the fifth minute, Mussa, in the 32nd, and Jaime Pimpão, in the 66th, while the Nigerians scored through Ogboma, in the 36th.
The Angolans reached the group stage of the African competition for the second time, three years later, and are the only representatives of Angola in the current edition of the 'Champions', after the elimination of Petro de Luanda.
