Coach Gavin Hunt has reacted to Elias Pelembe’s retirement from international football. The 42-year-old called time on his legendary career with Mozambique after the Mambas’ exit from the CAF 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.
Hunt’s deep respect for Pelembe stems from their highly successful era together at the now-defunct sides SuperSport United and Bidvest Wits, where the winger—affectionately known as ‘Dominguez’ – established himself as one of the best foreign players to ever grace the PSL.
Under Hunt’s mentorship, Pelembe was instrumental in securing league titles, terrorising defenders with his signature speed and skillful style.
Pelembe made history during the AFCON competition as the oldest outfield player in the tournament’s history. He captained Mozambique to a Round of 16 clash against Nigeria, though the Mambas’ journey ultimately ended in a 4-0 defeat to the Super Eagles.
Pelembe’s retirement signifies the end of a significant era for the Mambas. With more than 100 appearances, the midfield genius was the core of the Mozambican national team for almost twenty years.
WHAT GAVIN HUNT SAID ABOUT ELIAS PELEMBE
Coach Hunt noted that Pelembe’s longevity—playing at the highest level until 42—is a testament to his professionalism and discipline, traits that are often rare in the modern game.
“I hope he can speak English by now. I can speak Portuguese, and we had a great relationship. He is a fantastic servant of the game, you know what I mean,” said Hunt.
Recalling the first time he saw Pelembe in action, Hunt described an immediate realisation that he had found a special talent.
Beyond the trophies and accolades, Hunt emphasised the character of the man behind the athlete.
“What a player! I remember the first day he walked onto the ground, and I said, “What have we got here?” He had the legs [for football]. We had just gotten rid of Teko Modise, who was South Africa’s best player, and that year he was the South African Player of the Year,” he added.
“I mean, I can’t talk enough about him. He is a great human being. You know, that’s the most important thing. He looks after his family, and hopefully, he has looked after himself as well [financially]. It’s difficult to have a conversation with him, but we knew how to go about it. He is a great lad, and I will see him sometime, I’m sure.”
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