Chiquinho Conde, coach of the Mozambique National Team, shared his impressions of the team's preparation stage in neighboring South Africa for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). From the players' arrival to the challenges faced in friendly matches, the coach addressed crucial aspects that will shape the team's performance in the tournament.
Gradual Start-up and Initial Testing: Conde observed that the preparation began gradually, with some players arriving in Johannesburg one at a time. The coach emphasized that the first game, played against a team from the second or almost third division, was crucial to assess the physical condition of the 18 players initially present. He also highlighted the late arrival of key players such as Witine, Guimarães, Bruno, Ratifo and, finally, Geny.
Performance in Friendly Matches: During the training camp, the National Team participated in three friendly matches, winning two and drawing one, the last one against Lesotho. Chiquinho Conde, who faced Egypt as a player in 1986, is now preparing to face the Egyptian team as a coach in the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held in Ivory Coast.
Challenges in the Defense-to-Attack Transition: The coach expressed concern about the team's defensive-to-offensive transition during preparation. Despite already having an established playing style, the 4-2-3-1 formation, Chiquinho Conde highlighted his worries regarding Bruno Langa, who is currently experiencing limitations. Despite these obstacles, the coach assured that the team will be ready to face any opponent when the day of their CAN debut arrives.
A Tough and Confident Group for the Challenge: Mozambique is in a challenging group, facing the national teams of Egypt, Cape Verde, and Senegal. Chiquinho Conde acknowledges the difficulty of the group, but, despite all the adversities, expressed confidence that the National Team is prepared to face any team. The coach is aware of the challenges ahead, especially in the opening match against Egypt, but believes in the ability of his players.
Mozambique's national team's preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa reflects a combination of challenges and optimism. Chiquinho Conde, experienced both as a player and as a coach, faces obstacles but maintains confidence in his team's preparation. As Mozambique prepares to enter a competitive group in the Africa Cup of Nations, fans eagerly await to see how the national team will face the challenges and strive to achieve a remarkable performance in the continental tournament.
