Dakar, Senegal – Mozambique’s Ferroviario de Maputo kicked off their quest for a third African basketball title with a hard-fought 78-74 victory over Rwanda Energy Group (REG). winger Ingvild Mucauro, a key member of the team’s previous championship wins in 2018 and 2019, expressed her desire to bring home another trophy, especially given the current challenges facing Mozambique.
“we want to give a smile to the Mozambicans,” Mucauro said. “A title would mean even more to us because of the situation in our country.”
Mucauro, who was named the 2019 FIBA Africa Champions Cup for Women MVP, acknowledged the difficulties their team faced in preparing for the Women’s Basketball League Africa (WBLA) 2024 due to the ongoing political unrest in Mozambique.
“Our people are looking for something to bring them together, something to celebrate, happy moments and being here to represent them is a great honor and we want to give them that,” Mucauro told FIBA.basketball.
She emphasized the importance of representing their nation and bringing joy to their supporters. “we have families who support us despite the difficulties they face and we want to return their loyalty and support. The title would mean a lot for Mozambique at this time,” Mucauro added.
A veteran of the African basketball scene, mucauro has been a consistent presence in the competition as 2015.After leading Costa do Sol to a second-place finish in 2022, she played for Inter Clube in the 2023 edition, helping them secure third place after a loss to eventual champions Alexandria Sporting Club (ASC) in the semi-finals.
Returning to Ferroviario this year holds special significance for Mucauro. “We have to show that Mozambican women are strong, even in such situations, and we want to show the best of our country. Being here is a victory in itself, but we want the title. To return to this stage with a local club is special to me,as I love representing my country. We want to show Africa and the world what our country has to offer in terms of basketball,” she said.
under the guidance of coach Nasir Salé, Ferroviario showcased their depth with five players scoring in double figures against REG, the Zone 5 silver medalists. While pleased with the opening victory, Mucauro acknowledged the need for adjustments ahead of their next match against Jeanne D’arc, who will have the home-court advantage.
As former champions, Mucauro stressed the importance of focusing on the present.”We need to forget our history and focus,” she concluded.
The Mozambican national basketball team is setting its sights on a historic fourth consecutive title at the upcoming FIBA AfroBasket tournament. Having dominated the competition in recent years, the team is determined to solidify its place as a powerhouse in African basketball.
Mozambique’s impressive track record includes not only two consecutive championships but also three silver medals and two third-place finishes. This consistent success has earned them a reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the court.
Despite their past achievements, the team remains focused on the present challenge. As team captain, Armando Mucauro, emphasized, “We no we have a name in this competition, but we must not live in the past. Everyone does their job to win and we must be ready, play as a team and try to go all the way.”
the FIBA AfroBasket tournament promises to be a thrilling competition, with Mozambique aiming to make history once again.
FIBA
## Mozambique Basketball: Seeking Silver Linings on the Court Amidst National Challenges
Seeking solace and inspiration amidst difficult times, Mozambique’s Ferroviario de Maputo basketball team has embarked on their journey for a third African title in the Women’s Basketball League Africa (WBLA) 2024. Leading the charge is veteran Ingvild Mucauro, a pivotal figure in their previous triumphs and a symbol of national pride.
Senior editor James Thompson of world-today-news.com sat down with renowned basketball analyst, Dr. Amina Diallo, to discuss the team’s performance, the ongoing challenges they face, and the significance of their participation.
### A Message of Hope on the Court
**James Thompson:** Dr. Diallo, Mozambique is currently facing political unrest wich has undoubtedly impacted many aspects of life. How do you see basketball playing a role in bringing people together during thes challenging times?
**Dr. Amina Diallo:** Basketball has always been a powerful force for unity, transcending political and social divides. For Mozambique right now, Ferroviario’s success on the court can offer a much-needed sense of hope and distraction during difficult times. It’s more than just a game; it’s a symbol of resilience and national pride.
### Ingvild Mucauro: A Champion Leading the way
**James thompson:** Ingvild Mucauro is a name synonymous with Mozambican basketball. How vital is her leadership to the team’s success, especially considering the difficulties they’ve faced in preparing for this tournament?
**Dr. Amina Diallo:** Ingvild is a true basketball icon in Mozambique. Her experience,
determination, and dedication serve as an inspiration to the entire team. She understands the weight of their mission and has the ability to rally her teammates, even in the face of adversity.
### Eyes on the Prize: WBLA 2024 Aspirations
**James Thompson:** Ferroviario delivered a strong performance against Rwanda Energy Group in their opening match. What are their chances of going all the way and securing a third title?
**Dr. Amina Diallo:** Ferroviario certainly looks strong. Their victory against REG shows they meen business. However, the competition is fierce, and every team will be fighting for the title. A lot will depend on their ability to maintain consistency and overcome potential hurdles. But with their talent and the inspiration they draw from their nation, they are definitely contenders.
### Building on Past Success
**James Thompson:** Mozambique has a rich history in African basketball, particularly the women’s team’s recent success. Does this legacy add pressure on the current players, or does it serve as a source of motivation?
**Dr. Amina Diallo:** It’s definitely a double-edged sword. On one hand, the past achievements set a high bar and create expectations. On the other hand, it provides a blueprint for success. Ferroviario can draw inspiration from the legacy of past champions and strive to add their own chapter to Mozambique’s basketball history.
Let’s hope they can rise to the occasion and bring another title home to Mozambique.
