Dominguez and Mexer Sitoe, two of the most experienced and iconic players in Mozambican football, are one step away from securing their third participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). In Mozambique's 3-0 victory over Eswatini last night, Dominguez shone by opening the scoring, bringing the Mambas closer to another qualification for CAN 2025.
Both players made their debut in the main African competition in 2010, representing Mozambique for the first time that year. Since then, Dominguez and Mexer have been undeniable key players in the national team. Even after more than a decade, they remain active and fundamental to the team. Now, 13 years after their CAN debut, they are one victory away from securing their third participation, a rare feat for players of their generation.
Their expertise was once again called upon in 2023, when Mozambique broke a 13-year drought without participating in the tournament. The team, driven by their leadership, achieved its best performance to date in the competition. Now, Dominguez and Mexer seek to consolidate their legacy with consecutive qualifications, which would be the first time in their careers that they would participate in two consecutive Africa Cup of Nations.
The next challenge to secure this achievement will be against Mali on October 15th at the Zimpeto National Stadium. Mozambique already drew the first leg in Mali 1-1, and now needs a victory to seal their return to the biggest stage in African football.
With yesterday's victory, Dominguez and Mexer are just one game away from achieving yet another feat in their brilliant careers, further cementing their place in the history of Mozambican football.
