Comoros unveil 26-man squad for 2025 Africa Cup of Nations

Comoros have confirmed a 26-player squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with head coach Stéphane Cusin opting for a blend of tested regulars and emerging talents as the island nation targets another memorable campaign.

Cusin has named three goalkeepers for the tournament, Salim Boina, Youssouf Pandor and Ali Anzimati.

All three have featured in recent national team camps, and their inclusion provides stability in a department that has been one of the team’s strengths during past competitions.

The defensive group also reflects continuity.

Senior figures such as Kassim M’Dahoma, Younes Zahary and Benjaloud Youssouf return to anchor the back line, while younger options, including Ibro Boura and Youssouf Saïd Mmadi, have been retained to add depth and energy.

The selection underscores Cusin’s aim to maintain a defensive structure that has served the Coelacanths well while gradually integrating the next generation.

Midfield selections lean heavily on the core that has formed the team’s identity in recent years.

Zaidou Youssouf, Youssouf M’Changama and Yacine Bourhane provide experience and technical assurance, forming the spine of the squad.

They are supported by Ibrahim Mohamed, Roddy Lutin and Rafiki Vita, offering Cusin a range of tactical options in possession and transition.

Comoros’ attack includes familiar names who have driven their progress on the continental stage.

Faïz Selemani, Myziane Maolida and Rafidine Saïd all return, joined by veteran forward El Fardou Ben Mohamed and Matt Ozir Mattor.

The biggest surprise comes with the inclusion of young debutant 1Pliké140, who earns his first national team call-up after rising quickly through domestic and youth setups.

His selection reflects Cusin’s willingness to reward emerging talent that fits the team’s dynamic style.

The squad will reunite for two preparation fixtures against Gambia and Madagascar before travelling to Morocco.

These matches are expected to help refine tactical mechanisms and solidify partnerships, particularly in attack, where competition for places appears strong.

Comoros enter the tournament aiming to surpass their celebrated 2021 performance, when they reached the knockout stages in a historic run that captured continental attention.

With a balanced squad and a growing pool of talent, the team will look to reaffirm their status as one of Africa’s rising forces and a potential surprise package once the competition begins.