Morocco – President of Mozambique, Daniel Francisco Chapo, has charged the national team, the Mambas, ahead of their Round of 16 clash against the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
In a message issued Thursday, President Chapo praised the team’s spirited performance in the group stage and congratulated them for qualifying for the knockout phase, describing the achievement as “unprecedented and meritorious.” He commended the players and coaching staff for their courage, discipline, and determination, which he said had brought pride to the nation.
Extraordinary Bonus
To further motivate the team, Chapo announced an extraordinary bonus of 500,000 meticais (approximately N11.3 million) for each player and member of the coaching staff if they defeat Nigeria and advance to the quarter-finals.
> “This feat has filled our nation with pride. We salute your courage and discipline, and we stand firmly behind you as you take on Nigeria,” the President said.
Road to the Knockout Stage
Mozambique qualified for the Round of 16 after finishing third in Group F, despite losing 2-1 to Cameroon in their final group match. The team had earlier ended a 39-year wait for their first-ever AFCON victory, a milestone that electrified fans back home.
The Mambas now face one of the tournament’s most formidable sides, Nigeria, who topped their group with impressive performances.
Match Details
Nigeria and Mozambique will battle for a place in the quarter-finals at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Monday, January 5, at 8 p.m.
