Depu Dazzles as Angola Thrash Lesotho; Stalemate in Namibia-Malawi Clash

Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium, June 8, 2025 – The 2025 COSAFA Cup kicked into high gear on Sunday with two contrasting encounters that showcased both clinical finishing and defensive grit.

In the early kickoff, Angola stunned Lesotho with a resounding 4-0 victory, led by a magnificent hat-trick from forward Depu, who was simply unplayable. The Palancas Negras came out with intent, asserting dominance from the first whistle.

Angola’s attacking trio worked like clockwork. The opener came in the 13th minute through Vidinho, who calmly slotted home after a clever assist from Pedro Bondo. The buildup was crisp, the execution clinical.

Just before halftime, Depu got his first of the afternoon (44') with a sharp finish, thanks to a fine pass from Milson. He followed it up with a second in the 52nd minute, showing composure and awareness to pounce on a ball from Dianzenza S.. His final strike came deep in injury time (90+4') as Keliano M. threaded a precise assist to complete the hat-trick.

Also notable was the appearance of veteran winger Gilberto (aka Gibele), who came on at halftime to earn his 20th cap for the national team, a milestone in a career filled with consistency and contribution.

Lesotho, on the other hand, struggled to find rhythm and were outmatched in every department. Despite making several second-half substitutions in an attempt to regain control, they were unable to create clear-cut chances or withstand Angola’s fluid attack.

Later in the day, fans were treated to a far more tightly contested affair as Namibia and Malawi battled to a goalless draw. Despite the 0-0 result, the match was filled with energy, drama, and near-misses.

Malawi looked dangerous throughout, with Chikumbutso Salima having a goal disallowed in the 14th minute after a tight offside call via VAR. In the 31st minute, he came close again, forcing a fine save from the Namibian keeper after a brilliant cross by Lameck.

Namibia responded with a solid defensive display and some counterattacking flashes. Midfielder Wendell Rudath and captain Deon Hotto tried to organize the attack, but Malawi’s high pressing made it difficult for the Brave Warriors to string together meaningful moves.

In the second half, Malawi’s Gumbo had perhaps the best chance of the match in the 83rd minute, only to see his shot blocked by the goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation.

Both teams walk away with a point, but Malawi may feel they left something on the pitch. Namibia, on the other hand, will take pride in a clean sheet against a physically relentless side.