Mozambique are gearing up for their fifth participation in the tournament. Eager to overcome past struggles, the team is determined to leave a mark in this year’s competition.
The Mambas’ journey in AFCON began in 1986, following their independence in 1975 and joining the Confederation of African Football (CAF). However, their early years in the tournament were marked by disappointing performances, with the team facing strong opposition such as Ivory Coast, Egypt, and Senegal.
After a decade-long absence, Mozambique returned to AFCON in 1998, only to be grouped with Ghana, Tunisia, and Ivory Coast. Despite a promising 1-1 draw against Tunisia, they failed to advance to the next round. This pattern repeated itself in subsequent appearances in 2002 and 2010, with the team facing difficult groups and ultimately falling short of the knockout stages.
Determined to change their fortune, Mozambique enter the 2023 AFCON with renewed spirit and determination. Drawn into a challenging group alongside Egypt, Ghana, and Cape Verde, the Mambas recognize the daunting task ahead. However, fans remain hopeful that the team can finally break through and make a meaningful impact in the tournament.
AFCON 2023 Matches:
14 January 2024: Egypt v Mozambique
19 January 2024: Cape Verde v Mozambique
22 January 2024: Mozambique v Ghana
Key Players to Watch:
Domingues (Elias Gaspar Pelembe):
Domingues, one of the oldest players heading into the tournament, boasts an impressive 101 appearances for the Mambas, scoring 16 goals.
The 40-year-old attacking midfielder has been a pivotal figure for Mozambique since making his debut in 2004, showcasing his experience and importance to the team.
Bruno Langa:
A key player for Portuguese top-flight side Chaves, Langa is gradually becoming an essential part of the Mambas’ lineup.
Making his senior debut in 2016, the 26-year-old left-back has risen through the ranks, starting with the U-20 side.
Despite the upcoming AFCON being his first major tournament, Langa is poised to prove his worth, representing one of the few players in the team playing abroad.
Mexer (Edson André Sitoe):
Mexer brings a wealth of experience, having spent several years playing in Europe for top clubs in Portugal and France.
With 56 appearances for the Mozambican national team, the 35-year-old midfielder aims to contribute significantly in the tournament.
A key player for Rennes from 2014 to 2019, Mexer’s experience and leadership will be crucial for Mozambique.
Coach: Chiquinho Conde:
Having played in the past for the national team, he now has the opportunity to lead the team in a historic tournament. Conde has played for several teams in Portugal, including Sporting Braga, as well as in the United States of America, including the New England Revolution. The 58-year-old won the Taca de Portugal with Belenenses and Sporting CP as a player but is yet to replicate that in his managerial career. However, guiding the Mambas beyond the Group stage will be a great achievement.
Team Statistics:
Appearances so far: 4
Best Results: Group Stage in 1986, 1996, 1998, and 2010
Most capped player: Manuel José Luís Bucuane (Tico-Tico) with 69 appearances
Captain: Domingues
Top scorer: Manuel José Luís Bucuane (Tico-Tico) 27 goals in 123 appearances
The AFCON tournament will start on January 13, 2024 and conclude on February 11.
By Frank Appiah & Enoch Fiifi Forson