Chiquinho Conde Re-signs as Head Coach of Mozambique National Team Until 2027

Chiquinho Conde has officially renewed his contract to remain the head coach of the Mozambique national football team, commonly known as the Mambas, until July 31, 2027. This announcement was made by the Mozambican Football Federation (FMF) on a recent Saturday, confirming the continuation of Conde's leadership after a brief departure earlier this year.

Francisco Queriol Conde Júnior, widely known as Chiquinho Conde, is a former professional forward who gained recognition during his playing career in Portugal with clubs such as Vitória de Setúbal, SC Braga, and Sporting CP. He took over the reins of the Mambas in October 2021, succeeding Horácio Gonçalves. Since then, Conde has guided Mozambique through significant milestones, including qualification for two Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final tournaments.

The timing of this contract renewal follows a period of reflection by the FMF after Conde's previous contract expired on January 31, 2026. The federation’s Vice President for Studies, Projects, Marketing, and Public Relations, Gervásio de Jesus, had indicated that the future of the national team’s technical leadership was under consideration. The new agreement, effective from February 1, 2026, aligns with the FMF’s broader institutional planning aimed at providing stability and continuity to the national team’s sporting project during the current competitive cycle.

Under Conde’s management, Mozambique achieved a historic performance at CAN 2025, reaching the knockout stage for the first time after a notable 3-2 victory over Gabon in the group phase. Although the Mambas were eliminated in the round of 16 by Nigeria with a 0-4 defeat, this marked a significant step forward for the team on the continental stage. Additionally, Mozambique remained competitive in the qualification rounds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, finishing third in Group G with 18 points, narrowly behind Algeria and Uganda, but ultimately missing out on advancing to the final qualification phase.

This contract renewal signals the FMF’s confidence in Conde’s ability to build on recent progress and consolidate the gains made in Mozambican football. Stability in the coaching position is expected to foster further development of the national team as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures and qualification campaigns.

Looking ahead, the Mambas will focus on maintaining their competitive edge in African football under Conde’s guidance. The next steps will likely involve preparing for future continental tournaments and World Cup qualifiers, with the FMF emphasizing long-term planning to enhance Mozambique’s standing in international football.