Conde ‘happiest man’ after Mozambique AFCON feat

Coach Chiquinho Conde has described himself as the happiest man after leading Mozambique to their first-ever victory at the Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] underway in Morocco on Sunday.

Mozambique overcame Gabon 3-2 in a Group F match to revive hopes of a place in the round of 16.

In a post-match conference, as quoted by Geo Sport, Conde said he was proud of his players for a gallant fight against Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang-led Gabon.

“I am the happiest man after this important victory,” he said.

Mozambique and Sunderland FC’s left-back Reinildo Mandava has since shared the emotions of ending the 39-year wait for a first AFCON victory.

“We had asked Mozambican people not to stop believing in the selection. We have many words to say. It was a very well-fought game; we knew we were going to find a very good Gabon team. We played well, especially in the first half, created many chances, and should have scored more than three goals,” he is quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, a video has emerged of how Mozambique President Daniel Chapo celebrated his country’s national team’s AFCON feat.

The Mozambique leader was captured following the match played in Morocco on television. Donning Mozambique’s traditional red jersey, Chapo leapt in joy after his country’s team beat Gabon 3-2.

It was Mozambique’s first-ever victory at the continental football finals, coming after 17 games spread over six appearances.

What the AFCON result meant to Mozambique

Conde’s charges went into the Group F match weighed down by an unwanted record of having not won a match at the AFCON finals. To their credit, having started the tournament with a 1-0 loss to Ivory Coast, got their tactics right in the second game played at Grand Stade Agadir.

Mozambique will wind up the group’s assignments by playing against Cameroon on Wednesday, while Gabon faces the Ivory Coast on the same day.