Manuel José Luís Bucuane, better known as Tico-Tico, Tico-Tico celebrates his 52nd birthday today, August 16th. Born in 1973 in the city of Lourenço Marques (now Maputo), Tico-Tico is considered one of the greatest figures in Mozambican football and the all-time top scorer for the National Team.
His career began in Desportivo de Maputo, the club where he excelled and won the affection of the fans. In 1994, he transferred to Amadora Star, from Portugal, before returning to Desportivo the following year. Soon after, in 1996, he began one of the most significant phases of his career, joining Jomo Cosmos, from South Africa, a club he would go on to represent in three different periods.
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Tico-Tico also wore the colors of Tampa Bay Mutiny, in the United States, and from renowned South African clubs, such as Supersport United, the Orlando Pirates and the Maritzburg United, ending his career in 2010 at Desportivo de Maputo.
For the Mozambican National Team, Tico-Tico wrote his name in history: he is the player with the most games played (83) and the top scorer, with 27 goals scored. He represented the Mambas in three editions of the African Cup of Nations (CAN) — 1996, 1998 and 2010.
In recognition of his legacy, he was honored by Mozambican Football Federation (FMF) in 2012 and, the following year, he was appointed National Team Ambassador.
Today, as it celebrates its 52nd anniversary, Tico-Tico remains a symbol of dedication and pride for Mozambican football, serving as an inspiration for new generations.
