Mambas of Mozambique midfielder Edmilson Gabriel has expressed pride in his team’s achievement at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, despite their heavy 4–0 defeat to Nigeria in the Round of 16 in Morocco.
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Reacting after Mozambique’s exit from the tournament, Gabriel said reaching the knockout stage was a major milestone for the team and a sign of progress for Mozambican football.
He described competing at AFCON at this level as a source of pride for the players and the nation.
The midfielder acknowledged Nigeria’s superiority on the day, admitting that the Super Eagles’ quality and intensity proved difficult to contain.
However, he stressed that the loss does not take away from what Mozambique achieved by qualifying from the group stage and advancing to the last 16.
Gabriel noted that the experience gained from facing top teams like Nigeria will be invaluable for the development of the squad.
According to him, the Mambas intend to study their shortcomings from the tournament and use them as a foundation for future improvement.
He added that Mozambique will continue to build on the progress made in Morocco, with the aim of returning stronger and more competitive in future continental competitions.
Mozambique’s AFCON 2025 campaign ends in the Round of 16, while Nigeria move on to the quarter-finals in their bid for a fourth continental title.
