Kaizer Chiefs defender Edmilson Dove has hailed Mozambique's qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as a blessing amidst the country's turmoil following the recent national elections. Dove, who missed the qualifying matches due to injury, expressed his pride and joy at the team's success.

"It's a huge pleasure for us to be able to qualify for a second time in a row to participate in a competition as huge as AFCON," Dove says. "It's a moment of pride and also for the millions of Mozambicans that have been supporting us through thick and thin. They also deserve this moment."

Mozambique secured their spot in the tournament with a 2-1 victory over Guinea-Bissau in Bissau. The result ensured that Mozambique finished second in Group I, joining group winners Mali in next year's tournament.

For Dove, who has been recovering from an injury sustained during a preseason tour in Turkey with Chiefs, the team's qualification is a motivating factor to work harder and return to the national setup.

"By the grace of God, I have been recovering well," he says. "I have started running on the field, still doing functional work and strengthening. Hopefully, I will be soon back training with my teammates, featuring in games, and working myself back into the national team, which is something I will focus on once I'm fully recovered."

Dove's greatest moment, he says, is “bringing joy to the people of my country amidst the turmoil. With everything going on in my country, going through a difficult time qualifying brought joy to the people. As they say, football unites people. I think those are the moments where we go on the field for the people. It was pleasing to see smiles on their faces when we qualified."

As a key player for both Kaizer Chiefs and Mozambique, his experience and leadership will be crucial in the team's quest for success in the AFCON tournament. With his recovery on track, Dove is eager to get back on the field and contribute to Amakhosi’s team's success.

"We are excited about the prospect of playing in the AFCON tournament," he concludes. "It's a huge competition, and we are looking forward to the challenge. We will work hard to make sure we are well-prepared and make our country proud."