Opened 2009 Renovated 10 December 1981 | Owner State Capacity 65,000 | |
Similar Estádio dos Coqueiros, Pavilhão da Cidadela, Estádio 11 de Novembro, Estádio Nacional do Chiazi, Estádio Nacional da Tunda | ||
Estádio da Cidadela is a football stadium in Luanda, Angola. It is used mostly for football matches, while hosting from time to time cultural events, including musical concerts. It is part of the Complexo Desportivo da Cidadela, along with the Pavilhão da Cidadela, Pavilhão Anexo and Pavilhão Anexo II. While originally holding 65,000 people, in 2006, the stadium's upper ring has been declared unsafe by CAF and banned for public use. Cidadela is currently home to Angolan league club Progresso do Sambizanga.
Until Angola's independence in November 1975, the stadium has been the property of Futebol Clube de Luanda, one of the most traditional and historical clubs in Luanda. Shortly after, it has been nationalized for the purpose of general government use.
The stadium is often referred to as the cathedral of Angolan sports as over the years, it has witnessed some of the most important events in Angolan sports. Among other events, it has hosted the 2nd Central Africa Games, for which it was re-inaugurated on December 10, 1981. The stadium is also considered to be a charm for the Angola national football team and especially for Angolan football hero Akwá. From 2010, it has been overshadowed by the newer, modern Estádio 11 de Novembro.
At present, the stadium is being used by Girabola clubs Progresso do Sambizanga and ASA as their home ground.