Mozambique head coach, Francisco Conde, has dismissed concerns over Nigeria’s star-studded squad, insisting that reputation and big names will not decide Monday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 round of 16 encounter against the Super Eagles.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference at the Fes Stadium, Morocco, on Sunday, Conde said his side would approach the clash with confidence, focusing on collective strength rather than individual Nigerian players such as Victor Osimhen or Ademola Lookman.
“The strength that we have is a collective strength. We are not thinking about one player alone, either Victor Osimhen or Ademola Lookman. We will play Nigeria as a whole team,” the former Vitória F.C. manager said.
Conde stressed that pedigree alone does not guarantee success in football.
“Names and jerseys don’t win games. My players have shown that when they played against several other big players.”
The Mozambique coach also commented on the $7,000 cash incentive promised to each player by President Daniel Chapo should the team defeat Nigeria, describing the gesture as a sign of belief and encouragement.
“This is historic. This is the first time we are in the round of 16. We are very happy and satisfied. Our president loves football, pushes us, and believes we are capable of winning this game. That is why he made the promise,” Conde explained.
Reflecting on Mozambique’s journey at the tournament, Conde said his team may lack global superstars but compensates with unity and commitment.
“We don’t have Victor Osimhen, but we have Elias Pelembe ‘Dominguez’, our 42-year-old captain, alongside young players aged 19, 20 and 21. This mix of youth and experience is our strength.”
Team captain Elias Pelembe ‘Dominguez’ echoed his coach’s confidence, insisting the Mambas are not intimidated by Nigeria.
“We are not afraid of Nigeria. Football is 90 minutes and anything can happen. We will fight hard and continue fighting. To dream is free, and we will fight until we cannot,” he said.
Nigeria and Mozambique will face off on Monday for a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.