Victor Matine has been named as the new coach of Mozambique replacing Abel Xavier whose contract was not renewed and former international midfielder Nelinho as his deputy.

Matine, who is a physical education teacher, was an assistant to Abel Xavier d also a former coach of Mozambique’s under-23 and under-20 sides.

The appointment comes in the wake of Mozambique failing to qualify for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations hosted by Egypt with a record 24 teams for the first time in the history of the competition.

Matine will be straight in action this weekend when the Mambas travel to Antananarivo to take on Madagascar in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.

Mozambican Football Federation president Alberto Simango confirmed to www.soka25east.com the new development saying ” We made a decision to bring in Matine hoping that he will steer the team confidently and qualify for competitions”.

Mozambique conceded a dramatic goal deep into stoppage time in Guinea Bissau in their last qualifier in March which cost them a top-two place in their group.

More reporting from BBC