Super Eagles Retires Mozambique Captain

 Super Eagles Retires Mozambique Captain

Sampson Adedeji

Mozambique captain Elias Dominguez Pelembe has officially announced his retirement from international football following the Mambas’ elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The veteran midfielder featured in Mozambique’s final game of the tournament, a 4–0 defeat to the Super Eagles of Nigeria on Monday in Fez, which brought an end to the country’s AFCON campaign and his illustrious international career.

More than just a player, Pelembe was widely regarded as a symbol of pride, resilience, and leadership for Mozambican football. 

For many years, he carried the hopes of a nation on his shoulders, captaining the Mambas with distinction and inspiring generations of players with his professionalism and commitment.

Despite his advancing age, Pelembe continued to defy expectations, proving that passion, discipline, and experience remain invaluable at the highest level.

His elegance on the ball, tactical intelligence, and calm authority off the pitch made him a central figure in the national team setup.

As he bows out of international football, Elias Dominguez Pelembe leaves the stage as one of Mozambique’s greatest-ever footballers, having set a standard of leadership and dedication that will be difficult to match.