Ten-man Angola restored some pride to a flagging African World Cup campaign by holding Group D leaders Mexico to a goalless draw in Hanover.

The World Cup debutants had to defend with desperation for much of the match, especially in the second half, but managed to keep out the Mexicans even after they were reduced to 10 men by the sending-off of Andre.

Angola coach Luis Oliveira Goncalves had admitted on the eve of the match his side were fighting for the honour of an entire continent with Tunisia's 2-2 draw with Saudi Arabia the only occasion an African team had avoided defeat before this match.

His team backed his words with deeds although Mexico will rue a series of missed chances that cost them a victory that could, depending on Portugal's result against Iran on Saturday, have qualified them for the last 16 with a game to spare.

Angola had conceded an early goal to Portugal in their opening 1-0 defeat and were given a torrid time by Mexico in the first 15 minutes only to regain their composure for the rest of the half.

However, the Black Antelopes withstood some heavy pressure after the break and held out despite being reduced to 10 men.