On this special day, November 22nd, Mozambican football celebrates the birthday of a true legend: Francisco Queriol Conde Júnior, affectionately known as Chiquinho Conde. Born in 1965 in Beira, Mozambique, Conde is not only a sporting icon in his country, but also an exceptional striker and coach who left an indelible mark on the world of football.
A Player's Career: A Journey to Success Chiquinho Conde's journey began at Maxaquene, the same club that produced the legend Eusébio. Between 1986 and 1987, Conde shone on the Maxaquene pitches, marking the start of a remarkable career. In Portugal, he played for clubs such as Belenenses, Braga, Vitória de Setúbal, Alverca, Portimonense, Imortal, and Montijo. His time in Major League Soccer in the USA, with the New England Revolution and Tampa Bay Mutiny, is also an important chapter in his career.
Contributions to the Mozambican National Team: Chiquinho Conde left a significant mark on the Mozambican National Team, playing 43 matches between 1986 and 2001. His participation in three editions of the Africa Cup of Nations is a testament to his commitment to sport in Mozambique. Even facing challenges in the competition, Conde is remembered as one of the best players in the history of post-independence Mozambican football, alongside names like Tico-Tico and Dário Monteiro.
Transition to a Coaching Career: After ending a brilliant playing career in 2004, Chiquinho Conde made a natural transition to coaching. Debuting in 2005 at Maxaquene, where he began his playing career, Conde also had spells at Vitória de Setúbal U23, Liga Desportiva, Ferroviário de Maputo, Vilankulo, and União do Songo. His Mozambican Championship and Mozambican Cup titles with Ferroviário de Maputo and the Mozambican Championship with União do Songo attest to his success on the bench.
My Current Journey as Coach of the Mozambican National Team: October 2021 marked a new chapter in Chiquinho Conde's career when he was announced as the coach of the Mozambican National Team, succeeding Horácio Gonçalves. Since then, he has led the team with dedication and passion, contributing to the continuous development of football in Mozambique.
A Career of Achievements: A History of Titles Conde's remarkable career is adorned with titles, both as a player and as a coach. From the early trophies won with Maxaquene to the Mozambican championships with Ferroviário de Maputo and União do Songo, each title reflects his dedication to the sport and the lasting influence he had on the teams he led.
Congratulations to Chiquinho Conde! On this special day, we wish a happy birthday to Chiquinho Conde, an immortal figure in Mozambican football. His passion, dedication, and achievements serve as an inspiration to future generations of players and coaches in Mozambique. May this new year of life bring even more success, health, and joy to this legend of Mozambican sport. Congratulations, Chiquinho Conde!
