Mozambique President Daniel Francisco Chapo has lauded the Mambas for reaching the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and announced an extraordinary reward should they overcome Nigeria, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Mambas booked a clash with one of the tournament’s standout sides, Nigeria, after finishing third in Group F, despite suffering a 2-1 loss to Cameroon in their final group encounter.
In a message released on Thursday to the players and coaching crew, President Chapo applauded the team’s performance during the group stage.
He described the feat as historic and well deserved, saying it had filled the country with immense pride.
Speaking on behalf of the Mozambican people, the president praised the players and technical staff for their bravery, discipline and resolve, which propelled the team to a landmark achievement at the continental level.
According to Jornal Notícias, President Chapo, in a bid to further inspire the squad, pledged an extraordinary bonus of 500,000 meticais (about ₦11.3 million) for each player and member of the coaching staff if they defeat the Super Eagles and progress to the quarter-finals of the AFCON.
He reaffirmed that the nation stands solidly behind the team and voiced confidence in their capacity to triumph over Nigeria.
Nigeria and Mozambique are set to face off at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Monday, January 5, with kickoff slated for 8 p.m.