The Mambas provided an unforgettable night for Mozambicans, with a resounding 3-0 victory over Eswatini at Mbombela Stadium in South Africa, in a match counting towards the fourth round of Group I qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. This result strengthens Mozambique's aspirations in the quest for a place in the next edition of the continental competition.
Mozambique took to the field with an offensive posture from the opening whistle, pressing their opponent and dominating the first few minutes. Geny Catamo was the first to test the Eswatini defense with a dangerous shot, indicating that a goal for the Mambas was imminent. And it wasn't long before Dominguez, with his unmistakable class, opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a beautiful chip, putting the Mozambicans ahead.
Determined to make up for the draw in their last home game against Eswatini (1-1), the Mambas maintained their rhythm and extended their lead before halftime. In the 42nd minute, Ratifo took advantage of an opportunity and scored the second goal, taking Mozambique into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
In the second half, Eswatini tried to react more aggressively, but without managing to create real danger for the Mozambican goal. On the contrary, it was Mozambique that scored again, this time through Geny Catamo in the 58th minute, sealing the 3-0 scoreline. With the game under control, coach Chiquinho Conde opted to make several substitutions to manage the squad and give opportunities to other players. Gildo came on for Clésio, Pepo replaced captain Dominguez, and Elias Macamo, forward for Desportivo de Nacala, made his debut, replacing Ratifo. Jonathan Muiomo and Shaquille were also called into the game, replacing Geny Catamo and Alfonso, respectively.
With this victory, Mozambique provisionally moved into the lead of Group I, with 8 points, while awaiting the result of the other match between Guinea-Bissau and Mali. The resounding win renews hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, leaving the Mambas in an excellent position to secure their place in the next game against Mali, which will be played in November at the Zimpeto National Stadium.
This triumph not only strengthens the confidence of the players and fans, but also puts Mozambique one step closer to qualification, something that could be achieved with a home win next month.
