Mozambique Prepares to Host Eswatini in AFCON Qualifier

Mozambique is set to host Eswatini in a crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Estadio do Zimpeto on Friday, October 11. The match, which will kick off at 3 PM CAT (SA, GMT+2), has significant implications for both teams in their pursuit of qualification.

The Mambas, as the Mozambican national team is known, have made an impressive start to their qualifying campaign. Under the guidance of head coach Chiquinho Conde, they have gone unbeaten and are currently at the top of Group I. They secured a 1-1 draw against Mali, considered the group favorites, in Bamako on September 6, and followed it with a 2-1 victory over Guinea-Bissau in Maputo.

Chiquinho Conde has urged his team to stay focused and avoid complacency. “We are in a privileged position, but not a comfortable one. The position we occupy is the result of collective effort, but it does not mean we are comfortable,” he stated.

Eswatini, on the other hand, is experiencing a challenging start to the qualifications. The team is currently at the bottom of the group, having lost their first two matches. They are led by new coach Zdravko Logarusic, who is seeking his first victory at the helm. Despite recent struggles, Logarusic acknowledged the strength of Mozambique, commenting, “Mozambique is a good team as they have players who play their club football in Europe.”

Players to watch in this encounter include Mozambique’s Geny Catamo, who has been influential in their recent matches. Catamo scored against Mali and made a significant impact in the 2-2 draw with Ghana at AFCON 2023. For Eswatini, Justice Figuareido, who was recently recalled to the team, will be crucial as he leads their offensive efforts.

Mozambique holds the psychological advantage in the head-to-head record, having won one of the last two encounters, which speaks to the competitive nature of their previous clashes.