We are re-writing the history books – Conde
Mozambique coach, Chiquinho Conde is on an ambitious mission of re-writing the history books of Mozambiquan football, as he prepares his side to face Madagascar in a crunch quarter-final match of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship on Saturday.
The Mambas had to dig deep to reach their very first quarter-final spot in a senior CAF competition after finishing second in a tough group A consisting of tournament hosts, Algeria, reigning champions Libya as well as Ethiopia.
“This is our second CHAN tournament. Our first was in 2014 in South Africa where we finished with zero points. We are here in Algeria now and have made history by making it into the quarter finals with four points. The task is not complete yet because we are re-writing the history books of Mozambiquan football and want to continue doing well”, said the outspoken Conde.
The Mozambiquan mentor added that it would not be easy against their Southern African neighbours, whom he deems as the favourites for the tie.
“Tomorrow is an important match for us to win but it will not be easy. They are favourites because they have a much better scoring record than us and are quite offensive. We have been working hard on different variations to respond to the game so we will come prepared and do our best to make the people of Mozambique proud”, said Conde.
Conde was accompanied by Francisco Muchanga and just like his coach, the 31-year-old defender is happy with the quarter-final achievement, but even more determined to go further.
The lanky defender from Beira in Mozambique was part of the squad that was in South Africa for the 2014 edition.
“We are quite excited that we went past the group stages. This is my second CHAN tournament and I am glad to have contributed to this achievement of going past the group stages. We don’t want to only celebrate that. We want to go all the way but first, we need to overcome a very good side like Madagascar who have scored several goals. We are ready to do what is required for us to win the match and go further”, said Muchanga.
Both sides go into the clash with a clean bill of health and are set to give the people of Constantine a memorable showdown.
Kick off at the Chahid Hamlaoui Stadium will be at 17H00
The winner of the tie will take on whoever comes out top in the quarter-final match between Senegal and Mauritania set to take place this evening in Annaba.