Mozambique coach Chiquinho Conde praised his side’s fighting spirit as they rallied from a goal down to claim a 3-1 victory over Libya in their African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A clash on Tuesday.

Goals from Melque Melito, Feliciano Jone and Pachoio Lau King handed The Mambas their first ever victory at the continental finals, and gave them one foot in the quarterfinals.

They now need only a point in their final pool match against hosts Algeria on Sunday, though they will also advance whatever the result if Ethiopia don’t beat Libya in their last game.

“It was a difficult match,” Conde said. “We knew that Libya was going to come for victory, but despite our lack of experience, we had the support of our supporters, and we are so happy to have achieved this victory.

“The first half was difficult for us since the crowd was against us. But in the second period, we made changes that paid off.

“I am impressed by my players, they played hard, and they gave everything. I told them not to be afraid, to give everything.”

It continues a fine tournament so far for COSAFA sides at the CHAN, with all three very much in contention for the knockout stages.

A victory for Angola when they face Mauritania on Saturday will see them into the next stage, though a draw will be enough of the latter lose to Mali in their final game.

Madagascar need only a point when they take on Sudan in their second Group C clash on Jan. 23.