Hélder Duarte expressed his determination to secure qualification for the group stage of African competitions when his club faces Congolese side Otohô d'Oyo next Sunday. With a one-goal advantage, secured at home, the ABB coach believes he will reach the group stage.
“"We're going to Congo with the goal of winning, progressing from the knockout stage, and entering the group stage," said Hélder Duarte, reinforcing the group's confidence in the quest for victory that would take them to a new stage of the tournament.
If the Mozambican team can maintain or extend its lead in the decisive match, it will be the first time in seven years that a Mozambican club has reached the group stage of a continental competition. This achievement, in addition to boosting team morale, would also represent an important milestone for Mozambican football, which has struggled for years to regain relevance on the African stage.
The challenge won't be easy. Otohô d'Oyo, a Congolese team known for being difficult to beat at home, promises to complicate the Mozambican mission. However, the narrow advantage gained in the first game offers some hope, and Hélder Duarte seems ready to lead his team to a historic victory.
The coach also emphasized the importance of maintaining tactical discipline and concentration throughout the 90 minutes. "A mistake could cost us dearly, but we believe in our ability and will give our all to emerge victorious," he added.
Playing away from home is always a challenge, and the trip to Congo brings with it additional challenges, such as the heat and the pressure from opposing fans. However, Hélder Duarte and his team are preparing mentally and physically to overcome these difficulties and bring Mozambique the much-desired qualification.
If they manage to beat Otohô d'Oyo, it will be a moment of celebration not only for the team, but also for Mozambican football as a whole, which has long awaited a return to the great African stage.
