Mozambique Aims for Historic First Afcon Victory in Morocco

Mozambique is gearing up to achieve its first victory at the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) as they prepare to face formidable opponents in Morocco, according to former international star Manuel Bucuane.

Mambas’ Journey to Afcon 2025

Mozambique’s national team, known as the Mambas, has never advanced beyond the group stage in their five past appearances at the tournament, remaining in search of their inaugural win. Historically, the team has drawn five and lost ten out of their fifteen matches in the finals.

Bucuane highlights the tough road ahead in Group F, where Mozambique will compete against reigning champions Ivory Coast, five-time winners Cameroon, and a Gabon team featuring star player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Despite this challenge, he expresses strong optimism for their chances.

“Mozambique is gaining experience at this level, and qualifying is already a significant achievement for our nation,” Bucuane noted during an interview with BBC Sport Africa. “The squad is evolving, with many promising young talents. Some players are showing they can compete internationally.”

He added, “We aspire to secure our first match victory or even advance to the knockout phase. Though the competition will be fierce, our belief in this squad remains strong.”

A Renewed Spirit for Mozambican Football

Mozambique’s qualification for back-to-back Afcon finals marks a notable achievement, the first since 1998, following draws against major teams like Egypt and Ghana in the recent edition.

Bucuane, reflecting on the team’s development under coach Chiquinho Conde—who took charge in October 2021—emphasized the importance of integrating naturalized players into the squad. This change brings in new competitive spirit and experience drawn from diverse football environments.

Mozambique displayed glimpses of capability and resilience during World Cup qualifiers, maintaining their aspirations until the very end. “The hope is that this time, we may achieve something noteworthy,” he remarked about the upcoming tournament.

The Mambas’ campaign kicks off against Ivory Coast on Wednesday, followed by matches against Gabon and Cameroon.

Promising Developments: The Rise of Reinildo

With a Premier League player in the squad, optimism for Mozambique’s Afcon journey has grown significantly. Left-back Reinildo made history as the first Mozambican to feature in the English Premier League with his debut for Sunderland in August, after transferring from Atletico Madrid.

Alongside him, defender Bruno Langa and forward Geny Catamo are experiencing success in the Champions League, playing for Pafos and Sporting CP, respectively.

Bucuane recognized Reinildo’s achievements, stating, “His presence in the Premier League is monumental for our nation, paving the way for greater visibility of Mozambican talent.”

A Historical Moment for Afcon

Manuel Bucuane, affectionately known as Tico Tico, holds a significant place in the history of Mozambique’s Afcon journey. He was instrumental in scoring the country’s first-ever goal in the finals during the 1996 tournament in South Africa, resulting in a memorable draw against Tunisia.

Reflecting on that emotional moment, he shared, “It’s a day I’ll never forget; watching that game still gives me goosebumps.” Though he typically scored from close range, that particular solo effort remains a highlight of his career.

He emphasized the power of football to inspire and unite Mozambique, especially amid social challenges. “Our team has the support of the nation, and we eagerly anticipate our first victory at Afcon,” he concluded.