Kaizer Chiefs defender Edmilson Dove. Photo Courtesy Chiefs Media.
Kaizer Chiefs defender Edmilson Dove has discussed Mozambique’s qualification to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be held in Morocco.
The Mambas secured their spot in the 35th edition of the CAF tournament with a 2-1 victory over Guinea-Bissau in Bissau. The result ensured that Mozambique finished second in Group I, joining group winners Mali in next year's tournament.
"It's a huge pleasure for us to be able to qualify for a second time in a row to participate in a competition as huge as AFCON," Dove said as quoted by Kaizer Chiefs official website. "It's a moment of pride and also for the millions of Mozambicans that have been supporting us through thick and thin. They also deserve this moment.
“The qualification brought joy to the people of my country amidst the turmoil. With everything going on in my country, going through a difficult time qualifying brought joy to the people. As they say, football unites people. I think those are the moments where we go on the field for the people. It was pleasing to see smiles on their faces when we qualified."
Dove added: "We are excited about the prospect of playing in the AFCON tournament. IIt's a huge competition, and we are looking forward to the challenge. We will work hard to make sure we are well-prepared and make our country proud."
Dove has been out injured since Amakhosi’s pre-season trip to Turkey and asked how he was doing, he said: “By the grace of God, I have been recovering well," he says. "I have started running on the field, still doing functional work and strengthening.
"Hopefully, I will be soon back training with my teammates, featuring in games, and working myself back into the national team, which is something I will focus on once I'm fully recovered."
Comments