Teams
Petro Luanda
Primeiro de Agosto
Recreativo do Libolo
Desportivo da Huila
GD Interclube
Sagrada Esperanca
Academica Do Lobito
FC Bravos do Maquis
Progresso do Sambizanga
CR Da Caala
SC de Cabinda
Kabuscorp
CD Lunda Sul
Santa Rita de Cassia
FC Cuando Cubango
Wiliete SC
Aviacao
Benguela
Sporting De Benguela
Domant
Sao Salvador
Isaac de Benguela
JGM do Huambo
Ferroviario do Huambo
Saurimo FC
Baixa de Cassanje
ASK Dragao
Uniao de Malanje
Carmona SC
1º de Maio de Benguela
Luanda City
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" (lit. '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, 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 Girabola features a competitive format where teams battle it out over a season, culminating in a thrilling race for the championship title. Clubs from across the nation, including historic teams like Primeiro de Agosto, Petro de Luanda, and Sagrada Esperança, compete for glory, with matches often characterized by intense rivalries and vibrant atmospheres.
In addition to the excitement on the pitch, the Girabola serves as a vital platform for player development, with many athletes using the league as a stepping stone to international careers. The tournament not only highlights the skill and passion of Angolan football but also plays a significant role in promoting the sport throughout the country.
Fans can expect a season filled with dramatic moments, skillful play, and the rich cultural heritage of Angola, making the Girabola a must-watch event for soccer enthusiasts both locally and internationally.