Chiquinho Conde: Mozambique Will Rely On Team Strength, Not Individual Battles, Against Nigeria
Mozambique head coach Chiquinho Conde has insisted that his side will approach their Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 clash against Nigeria with collective discipline and tactical clarity, rather than focusing on individual stars.
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Speaking ahead of Monday’s encounter with the Super Eagles, Conde acknowledged Nigeria’s pedigree and attacking firepower but stressed that Mozambique’s strength lies in teamwork and organisation.
“The strength that we have is not individual but team strength and strategy,” Conde said.
“We will not play against Lookman or Osimhen. If we do that, we will not be able to achieve our dreams.”
The former Portugal international pointed to Mozambique’s experience against other high-profile opponents during the tournament as evidence of his team’s readiness.
“We have played against big teams in this tournament, like Gabon with Aubameyang, and we came out well,” he noted.
Conde described the fixture as a major opportunity for Mozambique, praising Nigeria’s football culture and history while maintaining belief in his players.
“Nigeria is a big team. We like this country and the people are good here. It’s a big opportunity for us to come here and play against a big football nation like Nigeria,” he said.
On preparation, the Mozambican coach explained that Nigeria have been analysed in the same detailed manner as other opponents.
“We observed the Nigeria team the same way we observed others. Nowadays, as coaches, we all work in the same way.”
Tactically, Conde revealed that Mozambique will remain flexible, adapting their shape depending on game situations.
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“We will embrace our ideas and play against our opponents. It could be 4-3-3 or something different on different occasions.”
While acknowledging Nigeria’s attacking structure, Conde said his side will aim for balance on both sides of the ball.
“Nigeria are a very strong team and we know they have a long process in building their attack. We will do all we can to break down their defence and also ensure their strikers are not able to attack.”
He also paid tribute to Nigeria’s rich football history and modern-day stars.
“We respect Nigeria. They have been a good team since the days of Rashidi Yekini. Across generations, they have produced good players and now have top players in Europe like Osimhen and Lookman.”
Despite Nigeria being favourites, Conde believes desire and mentality will be decisive.
“Our players will play for the Mozambican flag and the game will start at 0–0. We know Nigeria are more powerful, but we will see who wants it more.”
Outlining his coaching philosophy, Conde emphasised character, composure and effective transitions.
“My principle is to show character, defend well and attack better. We have fantastic attacking players who can decide a match at any time.
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“We must have constructive transitions and finish the game well. The players will be calm, with no pressure. They shouldn’t be too scared or try to do things beyond themselves.”
Conde concluded by expressing ambition tempered with humility.
“We are humble, but we also have ambition to make history for our people and our lives. This is a big opportunity to play against a fantastic opponent. There is nothing special like winning against a big team such as Nigeria.”
The winner of the clash will face wither Algeria or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the quarter final.
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