Children in Angola start playing football almost as soon as they can walk. In neighbourhoods across the country, games go on from early morning until dark. Balls can be made from anything - cloth, plastic bags, whatever is available - because the love of the game matters more than the equipment.
The national team's nickname, 'Palancas Negras' (Black Antelopes), is taken from the giant sable antelope - Angola's national animal. The badge on their jersey features the antelope, making every match a celebration of Angolan identity. When the national team plays, the whole country comes together to watch.
Angola also has strong basketball and handball traditions, but football remains king. Local club football is passionately followed, with teams from Luanda and other cities competing in the Girabola - Angola's top football league. Match days are festive occasions full of music, colour and noise.