Mozambique President Daniel Francisco Chapo has moved to fire up the national team ahead of their high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 clash against Nigeria, pledging a major financial reward if the Mambas can pull off a famous upset.
Mozambique secured a place in the knockout stages as one of the four best third-placed teams, finishing third in Group F to reach the last 16 ; a landmark achievement in the country’s AFCON history.
Following the historic qualification, President Chapo congratulated the players and technical team, hailing their determination and commitment in what he described as a proud moment for Mozambican football.
With attention now firmly on Monday’s encounter against the Super Eagles, the president announced a performance-based incentive to further motivate the squad.
Each player and member of the coaching staff has been promised 500,000 meticais should Mozambique manage to defeat Nigeria and book a place in the quarter-finals.
The knockout tie between Nigeria and Mozambique is scheduled for Monday, January 5, 2026, with the Mambas hoping belief, momentum and presidential backing can fuel a shock result against one of Africa’s traditional heavyweights.
