The Mozambique national football team, known as Os Mambas (The Mambas), represents Mozambique in international football under the auspices of the Federação Moçambicana de Futebol. Based in Maputo, the team plays its home matches at the Estádio do Zimpeto. The team was formed after the country's independence in 1975. While they have never qualified for a FIFA World Cup, their history includes memorable campaigns in the Africa Cup of Nations, with their best run being a group stage appearance in 1996, 1998, and 2010. A key era featured legendary striker Tico-Tico, the nation's all-time top scorer. In the modern era, under coach Chiquinho Conde, the team is built on a solid defensive foundation and seeks to exploit pace on the counter-attack, with players like Geny Catamo providing the spark. The Mozambican fans are known for their rhythmic and joyful support. Os Mambas remain a tricky opponent in African football, always capable of springing a surprise with their spirited performances.