Dominguez, 42, Returns to Lead Mozambique at AFCON

Mozambique have backed experience and leadership after naming 42-year-old winger Dominguez in their final 25-man squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Dominguez, who turned 42 last month, is set to become one of the oldest players ever to feature at the tournament. If he plays, he will be second only to Essam El Hadary, who was “44 years and 21 days” in the 2017 final.

His return is remarkable given that he was dropped earlier this year by head coach Chiquinho Conde for submitting his passport late and missing a crucial World Cup qualifier in Egypt. But strong form and renewed trust earned him a recall for friendly games last month, and he has now kept his place.

Mozambique will compete in a tough Group F against defending champions Cote d’Ivoire, Gabon and Cameroon. The Mambas are appearing in their second straight AFCON, a sign of growing stability after years on the margins. Dominguez, also part of the 2010 squad, joins fellow veteran Mexer, 37, in a team that blends seasoned players with Europe-based talents like Reinildo, Geny Catamo and Bruno Langa.

For Dominguez, this AFCON is about “relevance, leadership and one last statement…”. His experience, whether starting or off the bench, offers calm and authority as Mozambique aim to push beyond expectations.