Mozambique coach Chiquinho Conde has come out in defence of Edmilson Dove following the Kaizer Chiefs defender’s error in the 2-0 defeat to South Africa.
Bafana opened the scoring in the international friendly at the Peter Mokaba Stadium after 47 minutes through Sinoxolo Kwayiba.
Ashley Cupido then added a second goal with 70 minutes on the clock, having been fed the ball from Mohau Nkota, who had easily dispossessed Dove in his own area.
The 30-year-old is reportedly expected to leave Chiefs when his contract expires at the end of the month.
Conde said in the Sowetan: “It was a mistake that Dove made and he’s not happy, especially because he plays here in SA.
“He’s so sad to commit such a mistake but it was an error and it’s normal. Dove was out for a very long time because of an injury and he’s now coming back.
“He’s a very important player for us and I am sure he will improve in the next game. That mistake doesn’t define him at all.”
Mozambique used the friendly as preparations for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers with Uganda and Botswana in September.
The Mambas are currently second in Group G with 12 points, three points behind leaders Algeria.