Mozambique hold a 1–0 lead over Sudan following a frantic opening half dominated by the Mambas, where an early injury setback was swiftly transformed into the match’s decisive moment.
Mozambique established control early, dominating ball possession with a commanding 74% share compared to Sudan’s 26%. Despite controlling the tempo, Mozambique faced a major disruption in the 23rd minute when key winger Gildo Vilanculos was forced off due to an injury. Coach forced an early substitution, sending Candinho onto the pitch to replace Vilanculos.
The tactical shift paid immediate dividends. Just a minute after entering the fray, the fresh legs and energy made an instant impact as Guima set up Witi, who slotted the ball into the back of the net in the 24th minute to put Mozambique ahead 1–0.
While Mozambique saw most of the ball, Sudan remained competitive in brief spells, registering 3 total shots against Mozambique’s 4 attempts. Sudan managed 1 shot blocked, while both sides generated 1 corner kick each during a tightly contested opening 45 minutes. Mozambique was caught offside twice compared to Sudan’s single offense.
As the referee blew the whistle for half-time, Mozambique carried a deserved 1–0 cushion into the break, buoyed by Witi’s clinical finish and dominant control of the ball.
