Leading Angola's national women's futsal team as head coach, Henrique Lopes Fernandes do Rosário, commonly referred to as Rosário Nandinho, is gearing up to achieve a significant landmark in his coaching career.
For the very first time, Angola will join the CAF Women's Futsal Africa Cup of Nations, which is scheduled to occur in Morocco between April 22nd and 30th.
Facing this significant milestone, the coach combines ambitious goals with practical expectations. Competing in Group B along with Guinea and Egypt, Angola encounters a formidable task ahead.
However, Rosário has faith in his team members, their consistent improvement, and the shared drive this international competition might spark. In this discussion, he articulates his perspectives, aspirations, and the principles he seeks to instill in upcoming talent.
CAFOnline.com: Angola is in Group B with Guinea and Egypt. What are your first impressions?
Henrique Lopes Fernandes do Rosário: In my view, it's the most competitive group in the tournament. We're up against two nations with solid experience in indoor sports. But we're not afraid -- it makes the challenge even more exciting. We know every match will be a battle, and that drives us to raise our standards. This type of test will only help us grow.
How did your team prepare for this Women's Futsal AFCON?
This marks an entirely fresh beginning, and for this inaugural edition, everyone’s input has proven crucial. The preparation process has been rigorous, organized, and highly rewarding. Indeed, we’ve encountered numerous obstacles along the way, yet we approached each challenge with optimism. Collaborating within a team navigating such high-level rivalry calls for considerable patience and adaptability; however, our resolve remains unwavering.
What objectives have you set for your team?
We're moving forward with both humility and ambition. Our approach is step-by-step. It's not about rushing, but about building solid momentum one match at a time. We want to enter the tournament focused, lay the foundation from the first whistle, and keep growing throughout.
What aspects of the game have you emphasised in training?
Our strategy covers everything from technical skills to tactics, mentality, and fitness. We’ve focused on mastering transitions, intense pressing, and set pieces among others. However, the primary emphasis has been on becoming adaptable to various playing styles. In futsal, being versatile and strategically smart is crucial—traits that we’re diligently cultivating.
What was your process for choosing your team for this competition?
The selection procedure was intense. Not only did we have to pinpoint the technically proficient athletes, but also individuals with solid moral qualities such as cooperation, dedication, and honor when it comes to speaking for Angola. Bearing this jersey involves significant accountability. This expectation needed to shine through in their demeanor and play.
How is the team thinking as they approach the tournament?
The atmosphere is charged with electricity. There’s sincere excitement coupled with a powerful drive to excel and demonstrate that Angola deserves its place on this platform. The unity among them is buoyed by positivity. Each player understands they’re penning a significant page in the legacy of Angolan women’s athletics.
In a single word, what would you say about this team?
Warriors. Being an Angolan woman signifies for me--struggle, bravery, and honor. This is the attitude we carry onto the field.
What is your evaluation of the progress made in women's futsal in Angola?
Our growth continues as women’s futsal becomes increasingly visible, credible, and dynamic. We’re making strides forward with many more developments ahead, though we have established a solid base. This AFCON serves as an essential stage for accelerating our advancement and motivating more young girls to take part in this sport.
Angola has a strong tradition in indoor sports, like handball and basketball. Can that benefit women's futsal?
Absolutely. We have a culture of discipline, effort, and indoor competition. Now it's about channelling that energy into futsal, building bridges between disciplines. This Africa Cup of Nations can be a catalyst -- and in many ways, it already is. The movement has begun.
Does this women's Futsal AFCON, which acts as a qualification tournament for the World Cup, influence your approach?
Of course, it's added motivation. But our strategy remains grounded: to build step by step. Everyone dreams of a World Cup spot -- and dreaming costs nothing. But here, every day and every minute count. We want to stay grounded and focused on the work ahead.
What does it mean to you, personally, to lead this team into a continental competition?
Receiving this opportunity is a great honor. Having the chance to lead this squad is a privilege, and I am grateful to the Angolan Football Federation for placing their confidence in me. While my aspirations extend further than just this championship—I aim to continue growing, enhancing my skills, and achieving global success at the highest tiers—this competition serves as both an important landmark and a launching pad.
What message do you wish to convey to the people of Angola, particularly young girls?
We’re relying on the backing of our whole country. Our efforts are all about supporting Angola. To the younger women among us, let me say: step forward and become part of this journey. Engage with this incredible game called futsal; it’s ready and looking for new players like you. This sport will instill valuable lessons, create a supportive community, and open doors for your future. We’ll always be right here to help lead the way.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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