Today is "D" day for the "Mambas" national soccer team. In the match preview, national coach Chiquinho Conde said yesterday that the "Mambas" will be playing to beat Benin at the Zimpeto National Stadium, in the sixth and final round of Group "L" for access to next year's CAN, which will take place in Côte d'Ivoire.

"During the week we worked on everything we had planned and idealized. We managed to get our ideas across and we had three new players who we took the opportunity to get to know. All the lads are in good condition and recommend themselves. In fact, I'm pleased with the players' application and commitment. Now it's up to me to manage the players' anxiety," said Conde, quoted by Desafio newspaper.

The coach explained that anxiety and pressure are normal in this kind of situation "and we're the ones who cause it, because we're in a crucial game and we want to win". He added: "A draw will do, but a win is even better".

Chiquinho Conde also said that he respects Benin because it has a real chance of reaching the CAN and therefore has the right to claim qualification.

"We have to approach the game naturally, press in the first 15 minutes to see if we can get a goal and then take control of the game. To do that, we need very focused players. The game will be very difficult for us, but it will also be difficult for Benin," said Chiquinho, who isn't too worried about the change of coach in Benin.