Photo Courtesy Football Association of Malawi Media.
Mozambique head coach Chiquinho Conde has revealed they will use the underdog tag to perform well at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Morocco.
The Mambas were down to play in Group F alongside defending champions Cote d’Ivoire, five-time winners Cameroon, and Gabon. According to Conde, Mozambique will travel to the North African nation seeking to perform and not to make numbers.
“Being among the 24 best African nations is a testament to our merit,” Conde said as quoted by CAFOnline.com. “Everything we’ve accomplished up to this point gives us courage and motivation to raise our ambitions even higher.”
During a previous interview after the draw, Ivory Coast captain captain Serge Aurier failed to mention Mozambique while reviewing the draw. Conde now says he will use snub to serve as extra motivation for his players.
“It was interesting to note that during the interview with Côte d’Ivoire’s captain, he mentioned several teams and key players from the group but completely overlooked Mozambique, dismissing us entirely,” explained Conde.
“That could work in our favour. We will use this as fuel to inspire the players and draw positive energy so that we can prove ourselves on December 24, in our opening game against Côte d’Ivoire.”
He added; “We’ve fought tirelessly to achieve things where people least expect them. That’s our fight; that’s our mission. We want to do better. The first match is always the most important. So, let’s go, Mambas! Together, we’ll make it happen!”
The Mambas, who last played at AFCON 2023 after a 13-year absence, are determined to surpass their previous tournament performances, having never progressed beyond the group stage.
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