Teams
Recreativo do Libolo
Sagrada Esperanca
GD Interclube
Primeiro de Agosto
Desportivo da Huila
Academica Do Lobito
Petro Luanda
FC Bravos do Maquis
Progresso do Sambizanga
CR Da Caala
SC de Cabinda
Kabuscorp
FC Cuando Cubango
CD Lunda Sul
Santa Rita de Cassia
Wiliete SC
Aviacao
Benguela
Sporting De Benguela
Domant
Ferroviario do Huambo
JGM do Huambo
Baixa de Cassanje
Saurimo FC
ASK Dragao
Isaac de Benguela
Uniao de Malanje
Sao Salvador
1º de Maio de Benguela
Wikipedia - Girabola
Girabola, or Campeonato Nacional de Futebol de Séniores Masculinos, is the top division of Angolan football. It is organized by the Angolan Football Federation.
The term "Girabola" (literally "spin ball") is a creation of the nationalist, radio broadcaster and sports reporter Rui Carvalho, in 1972, at a time when the Angolan championship was still officially called "Campeonato do Estado Ultramarino de Angola". The name "Girabola" differentiated the competition from the other overseas provinces and was a subtle form of anti-colonial protest.
The league winner and runner-up qualify for the CAF Champions League.
History
The competition is the successor to the "Campeonato do Estado Ultramarino de Angola".
Between 1975 and 1979, this competition did not take place.
In 1979, the first edition of the post-independence, the competition was played, consisting of 24 teams, divided into groups of four or six teams,[3] in a competition that started on December 8, 1979.
In 1980 the competition was contested by the thirteen teams best classified in the previous season, plus Sagrada Esperança, benefiting from the division of the Lundas into north and south. The last edition to be played by fourteen teams was in 1990.
In 1991 and 1992, sixteen teams participated in the competition. In 1993 and 1994, the number of teams competing was reduced to twelve, because of the civil war that prevented teams from Huambo from participating in the competition.
In 1995 the competition was again contested by fourteen teams. Since that year, the point system has also changed, with the winner of the game earning 3 points instead of the 2 points previously earned.
Since 2010, the championship has been contested by 16 teams.
The tournament features intense competition and thrilling matches as teams battle it out for the coveted Girabola title. The tournament follows a round-robin format, where each team plays against every other team twice, once at home and once away.
The Angola Girabola is known for its passionate fan base, with supporters filling stadiums to cheer on their favorite teams. The atmosphere is electric, with colorful banners, chants, and drums creating an unforgettable experience for both players and spectators.
The tournament has a rich history, dating back to its inception in 1979. Over the years, it has become a platform for young talents to showcase their skills and attract attention from scouts and international clubs. Many players who have participated in the Angola Girabola have gone on to have successful careers both domestically and internationally.
The Angola Girabola not only promotes soccer excellence but also contributes to the development of the sport in Angola. It provides opportunities for local talent to grow and improve, fostering a strong soccer culture within the country.
Overall, the Angola Girabola is a thrilling and competitive soccer tournament that showcases the best of Angolan soccer talent. It brings together passionate fans, talented players, and a rich history, making it a must-watch event for soccer enthusiasts in Angola and beyond.