Inacio Miguel Remains Overlooked by Angola Despite Leadership Role at Kaizer Chiefs

Inacio Miguel continues to be sidelined by Angola’s national team despite his growing influence at Kaizer Chiefs. The 29-year-old captain has firmly established himself as a leader in the Soweto giants’ dressing room but has yet to receive recognition from national team coach Pedro Gonçalves. Miguel will miss the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Libya and Mauritius in September.

Miguel is in his second season at Chiefs, having taken over the captaincy from Yusuf Maart. His leadership on and off the field has earned him respect within the club, but hopes of a return to Palancas Negras have been dashed. Reports suggest that his limited playing time at Petro de Luanda continues to weigh against him in the eyes of the national team. Miguel made just five senior national team appearances, with his last cap coming in November 2023 as a substitute in a World Cup qualifier against Cape Verde. He was also a late call-up for the most recent AFCON finals but did not feature in any match.

Gilberto, currently on loan at Petro from Orlando Pirates, has also been overlooked by Angola. For Miguel, his attention now remains on club duties as Chiefs prepare for a key PSL clash against defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday at FNB Stadium.

Speaking ahead of the match, Miguel emphasized focus and preparation over results or opponents’ reputations.

“We are preparing for the game against Sundowns the same way we prepare for all the games. Of course, we have massive respect for Sundowns. They are PSL winners, have a good team, and quality players. But the main focus here is on ourselves and what we can bring to the game,” Miguel said.

He dismissed assumptions that Sundowns’ recent loss to Orlando Pirates might signal vulnerability. “People are thinking just because Sundowns lost a game they have no confidence. I don’t see it that way. It is part of football. Sundowns is a big club, they play for big trophies, and we have to focus on our job, analyse their strengths and weaknesses, and be ready for them,” he added.

Miguel’s leadership will be critical for Chiefs as they face a Sundowns side still unbeaten in the league, with the match scheduled for 19:30 at FNB Stadium. Despite being overlooked internationally, he remains determined to lead by example on the domestic front.