AFCON 2025: Chiquinho Conde announce 25-man Mozambique squad for tournament

Mozambique head coach Chiquinho Conde has unveiled his final 25-man squad for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, blending experienced campaigners with fresh talent.

The Mambas, preparing for their sixth AFCON appearance, are aiming to advance past the group stage for the first time in their history.

Conde has retained a strong core from the previous tournament in Côte d’Ivoire, with 16 players returning, complemented by nine newcomers making their continental debut.

Key veterans include goalkeepers Ernani and Ivane Urrubal, alongside defenders Mexer, Reinildo, Bruno Langa, Ifren Matola, Edmilson Dove, and Nené.

In midfield, Guima, Alfons Amade, Dominguez, and João Bonde continue to anchor the team, while forwards Ratifo, Gildo, Geny Catamo, and Witi remain central to Mozambique’s attack.

The squad also introduces new faces eager to make an impact: goalkeeper Kimiss Zavala, defenders Óscar Cherene, Diogo Calila, and Chamboco, midfielders Kambala and Kenys Abdala, and forwards Melque, Faisal Bangal, and Chamito.

Conde confirmed notable absences include forward Pepo, sidelined by a knee injury, and Clésio, omitted for technical reasons.

Other former AFCON participants missing out this year are Fasistêncio Faza, Domingos Macandza, David Malembana, Shaquille, Amadou, and Lau King.

Preparations begin immediately ahead of the tournament, which kicks off on 21 December. Africa- and Middle East-based players will arrive in Maputo this week, while Europe-based stars will head to Albufeira, Portugal, for a five-day training camp starting 16 December.

Mozambique open their campaign on 24 December against defending champions Côte d’Ivoire, with hopes of a strong start in a highly competitive AFCON.

Mozambique Squad – TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025

Goalkeepers: Ernani, Ivane Urrubal, Kimiss Zavala

Defenders: Óscar Cherene, Diogo Calila, Mexer, Reinildo, Bruno Langa, Ifren Matola, Edmilson Dove, Nené, Chamboco

Midfielders: Guima, Alfons Amade, Dominguez, Kambala, Kenys Abdala, João Bonde

Forwards: Ratifo, Faisal Bangal, Gildo, Melque, Geny Catamo, Chamito, Witi