The FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Pre-Qualifying Tournaments are on the horizon, slated to begin in August. Yet, in the Southern region of Africa, Mozambique’s preparations are already in full swing.
The team has set up camp in the capital city of Maputo, focusing on rigorous training sessions under the guidance of assistant coach Leonel Manhique. Head coach Inaki Garcia, unfortunately, is currently absent due to family commitments, but the team remains undeterred.
Mozambique is set to compete in one of the two World Cup Pre-Qualifying Tournaments, waving their flag in Mexico from August 19-25. They will face formidable opponents, including the host country, Montenegro, and New Zealand in Group B.
The journey to Mexico holds significant promise and challenges for Mozambique, a nation eager to mark its presence on the global stage once again.
Among the pre-selected players, Tamara Seda stands out as a beacon of hope and excellence. Seda, who last played for Angolan side Inter Clube, has been making waves across Africa and beyond.
Her impressive performances earned her the top rebounder award at the 2023 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket, and she was named to the All-Tournament Team alongside notable players like Amy Okonkwo (Nigeria), Cierra Dillard (Senegal), Jannon Otto (Uganda), and Sika Kone (Mali).
In a recent interview with FIBA.basketball, Seda shared insights into the team’s morale and preparation. “It’s been a while since Mozambique has had such a long preparation for any competition,” she noted.
“Although all the girls haven’t been able to join, I feel that when the time comes, Mozambique will always show up and show out, but this time even better.”
Mozambique’s first and only World Cup appearance happened a decade ago in Turkey at the 2014 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. For Seda and her teammates, the upcoming tournament represents a chance to revive and surpass their past achievements.
“Any opportunity to present ourselves in an international competition is always exciting. As a player, I feel fortunate to join my teammates and be able to represent our country one more time,” said Seda.
Mozambique is one of four African teams, alongside Rwanda, Mali, and Senegal, involved in the two Pre-Qualifying Tournaments. These teams will compete fiercely for a spot at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Germany.
The question on everyone’s mind is: Can Mozambique pull off a winning campaign in Mexico?
Seda remains optimistic. “We have been at the highest level in Africa. Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to clinch a podium position during my time, but I feel like it is never too late to still dream about it.
Only those who will participate have a chance, and we are one of those countries, so why not?” she queried.
Reflecting on past challenges, Seda expressed confidence in the team’s current composition. “So far, none, and this is because this time we have many more players that have competed outside of Mozambique. I feel like this was one of our biggest issues in the past.”
She continued, “Mozambique is still one of the few African countries that haven’t naturalized players. However, most of the girls in our roster have played college basketball and others have plenty of experience throughout Africa.”
Seda’s optimism and determination epitomize Mozambique’s spirit as they prepare for the tournament. “I would say whatever Mozambique, as a well-known basketball team, has done in the past, it didn’t have our name on it. So, if we want to leave our imprint, the time is now.”
The FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournaments will involve 24 teams. The winners of the Mexico and Rwanda Pre-Qualifying Tournaments, along with 22 other teams determined by results in the FIBA Women’s Continental Cups 2025, will secure their spots.
For Mozambique, the journey to Mexico is not just about participation; it’s about seizing the moment to make history.
As the countdown to August begins, Mozambique’s training camp buzzes with anticipation and hard work. With Tamara Seda leading by example, the team is united in their goal to shine on the international stage.
Their journey to Mexico holds the promise of new achievements and a chance to etch Mozambique’s name in the annals of basketball history.
Photo: FIBA
