 |
| Image:X |
Mozambique President Daniel Francisco Chapo has thrown his full weight behind the national football team ahead of their crucial Round of 16 clash against Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, promising a massive financial reward to motivate the players.
The Mozambican leader hailed the Mambas for qualifying for the knockout stage of the tournament, describing the achievement as historic and a major boost for the country’s football reputation on the continent. Mozambique progressed to the last 16 after finishing third in Group F, despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to Cameroon in their final group game.
Their qualification has set up a challenging encounter with Nigeria’s Super Eagles, one of the tournament’s most consistent and highly rated sides.
However, President Chapo has made it clear that his team should approach the fixture with confidence and belief.
In a message addressed to the players and technical crew on Thursday, the president praised the team’s courage, discipline and resilience throughout the group stage. He noted that their performances had united the nation and lifted Mozambique’s profile on the African football stage.
Representing the will of the Mozambican people, Chapo assured the squad of the country’s unwavering support as they prepare to face Nigeria. He expressed confidence in their ability to rise to the occasion and deliver another memorable result.
To further spur the team on, Mozambican media outlet Jornal Notícias reported that President Chapo approved an extraordinary bonus of 500,000 meticais for each player and member of the coaching staff if they manage to defeat Nigeria and secure a place in the quarter-finals. The bonus is estimated to be worth about N11.3 million.
The financial incentive is seen as a significant morale booster for the Mambas, who are chasing a historic quarter-final appearance at the AFCON. The promise of the reward underscores the importance attached to the match by both the government and football authorities in Mozambique.
Nigeria, on the other hand, remain one of the favourites to win the tournament, having impressed with solid performances so far. The Super Eagles boast a wealth of experience and quality, making them a formidable obstacle for Mozambique.
Despite the odds, Mozambique’s players are expected to draw motivation from their president’s backing as they look to cause an upset. The encounter has already generated excitement among fans from both nations, with anticipation building ahead of the showdown.
Nigeria and Mozambique are scheduled to face each other at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Monday, January 5. Kick-off is set for 8pm Nigerian time, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.
As the countdown continues, all eyes will be on whether the Mambas can turn presidential support into a historic victory or if the Super Eagles will assert their dominance and march on in the competition.
#ExclusiveUpdate
#ViralContent
#Sports
No comments:
Post a Comment