Mauritius has appointed a new head coach for its national football team, turning to Algerian tactician Mankour Boualem on a contract running until the end of the year. This marks a significant step for the Mauritius Football Association, which had been without a manager since Abkar Patel’s departure.
Mankour Boualem brings a wealth of experience across African football. He is particularly well-regarded for his work in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he managed FC Saint Eloi Lupopo on two separate occasions. In addition, he has coached KAC Kenitra in Morocco and AS Gabès in Tunisia, giving him exposure to different playing styles and tactical systems across North and Central Africa. His appointment signals Mauritius’ ambition to professionalize and strengthen its national team setup, even outside major qualifying competitions.
The challenge ahead for Boualem is significant. The Mauritian national team is not currently involved in the qualifiers for either the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations or the 2022 FIFA World Cup, meaning the new coach must focus on long-term development, team cohesion, and raising standards in training and performance. He will likely need to assess the domestic league, identify emerging talents, and establish a strategy that balances immediate improvement with future sustainability.
Beyond tactics, Mankour Boualem’s task involves instilling confidence and a professional mindset in the squad. Mauritius has historically struggled to make a mark on continental football, so creating a competitive, motivated national team culture will be central to his mission. His prior experience managing clubs in diverse environments should help him adapt quickly and bring fresh ideas to the team.
The Mauritian Football Association hopes that Boualem’s leadership will revitalize the national team, build a cohesive squad, and lay the groundwork for success in future continental tournaments and friendlies. His appointment is viewed as an opportunity to modernize the team’s approach to football, incorporating tactical discipline, fitness standards, and professional preparation.
With a contract lasting until the end of the year, Mankour Boualem has a clear timeframe to make an impact. While immediate results may not be measured in qualifiers, his influence on the structure, professionalism, and long-term development of the Mauritius national team will be closely watched by local fans and football stakeholders alike. This appointment is a key moment in Mauritian football as they look to rebuild and prepare for future competitive campaigns.
