Delay in the Start of Moçambola: Reflection of Disorganized Management

Alípio Freeman"

Mozambican teams began pre-season around three months ago, after the championship ended in November last year. However, the Moçambola has not yet kicked off and is expected to start in May. This long wait raises important questions about the organisation of national football and the challenges that teams face in remaining competitive. In general, the interval between the end of one championship and the start of the next should be no more than two months. This period allows the athletes to rest, undergo technical assessments and undergo adequate physical preparation. When the pre-season goes beyond this interval, the risks are obvious: physical and psychological exhaustion of the players, increased risk of injuries, loss of competitive rhythm and difficulties in maintaining the motivation of the squad. Under normal conditions, a pre-season should last between six and eight weeks, enough time to prepare the team without compromising the integrity of the athletes. However, the reality of Mozambican football is marked by financial difficulties. Most clubs face serious sponsorship problems, which directly impact their ability to pay decent wages to players and maintain a functional structure. The lack of funds leads to situations in which teams are forced to extend contracts and make payments beyond what was planned, just to keep their players active. This financial instability undermines the performance of players and the competitiveness of teams, driving away the interest of the public and investors. The question that arises is: how can we have a respected league if we cannot organize an attractive championship? The Mozambican Football Federation (FMF), responsible for managing the country's main competition, seems far removed from this reality. While the president of the federation is praised in management positions in African football, its own house is disorganized. After all, what are the criteria for this international representation, when internal management is marked by delays, lack of transparency and evident structural flaws? A glaring example of mismanagement is the Zimpeto National Stadium, which is frequently closed by CAF for basic issues such as the pitch and sanitation. The imposing infrastructure, which should be a symbol of modernity, is nothing more than a shelter for rats, beggars and filth. How can we talk about professional football in these conditions? However, this chaotic situation can be seen as an opportunity. Successive delays in the start of the Moçambola could serve to harmonise the national football calendar with the main international leagues. Mozambique has athletes playing in foreign leagues, and adapting the calendars would facilitate the integration and transition of these players into national competitions. In addition, it would allow Mozambican clubs to have greater room for planning and organisation, aligning themselves with the main markets and opening up space for international partnerships. It is urgent that someone put the cat in the bag. The clubs, players and fans deserve more respect and a structure that values national sport. The FMF urgently needs to review its priorities and ensure that football in Mozambique is not just an illusion of grandeur, but an organized reality worthy of applause. If used strategically, this calendar crisis could become an impetus for the restructuring of Mozambican football and its true professionalization.

2025/12/3