Mozambique Aims for Breakthrough at 2025 Africa Cup of Nations
Mozambique is determined to overcome a challenging draw and advance to the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), according to former international Manuel Bucuane.
The Mambas have yet to progress past the group stage in five previous attempts, still searching for their first victory at the finals, having recorded five draws and ten losses out of 15 matches.
Chiquinho Conde's team faces a formidable challenge in Group F against reigning champions Ivory Coast, five-time winners Cameroon, and a Gabon side featuring Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Despite the tough competition, Bucuane remains hopeful.
"Mozambique doesn't often compete at this level, so qualifying is a significant achievement for our country," the retired striker told BBC Sport Africa. "The team is developing, with many promising young players who are demonstrating their ability to compete at the highest level. We aspire to win our first match or even progress to the next stage. While it won't be easy given the strength of our opponents, we believe in these boys."
Mozambique has qualified for back-to-back finals for the first time since 1998, having held Egypt and Ghana to draws in the 2023 edition in Ivory Coast. "Since Chiquinho Conde took over in October 2021, the team has shown improvement," Bucuane, 52, added.
"We have opened the door for naturalized players to join the national team, which is a vital step as they bring competitiveness from different environments. In Ivory Coast, we demonstrated glimpses of our potential. For the first time in World Cup qualifiers, we maintained hope until the end. Our hope is that this time we might achieve something significant."
The Mambas will kick off their campaign against Ivory Coast on Wednesday at 17:30 GMT, followed by matches against Gabon on December 28 and Cameroon on December 31.
Reinildo: A New Standard Bearer
One source of optimism is the inclusion of a Premier League regular in the squad, along with players gaining experience in Europe's top club competitions. Left-back Reinildo made history as the first Mozambican to play in the English Premier League when he debuted for Sunderland in August after transferring from Atletico Madrid.
Additionally, defender Bruno Langa and forward Geny Catamo have both participated in the Champions League this season with Pafos and Sporting CP, respectively. "Reinildo's presence in the Premier League is a significant milestone for our country," Bucuane stated. "He is proudly representing Mozambique and paving the way in England. With Geny excelling at Sporting and Bruno competing in the Champions League, the experience they gain will greatly benefit the national team. Their success puts Mozambique on the map, leading others to ask, 'Where is Mozambique?' and prompting scouts to take notice of our players."
A Piece of Afcon History
Bucuane, known as Tico Tico, holds a special place in Mozambique's Afcon history. He scored the nation's first-ever goal at the finals, securing a 1-1 draw against Tunisia during the 1996 tournament in South Africa. "That day was special and incredibly emotional," he recalled. "It was an unforgettable moment. Even now, I watch the game on tape, and it still gives me goosebumps. I usually score tap-in goals, but that solo effort was exceptional. Those moments define a player, and in Mozambique, people still recognize me for that. Our nation faces many social challenges, and football provides a beacon of hope. We stand united behind the team, eagerly anticipating our first Afcon victory."