Mauritania make winning start to CAN 2027 qualifying with victory over Central African Republic

Mauritania began their CAN 2027 qualifying campaign with a 3-1 win over the Central African Republic in Casablanca on Thursday.

The Mourabitounes took time to settle, but gradually established control of possession as Aritz Lopez Garai’s side grew into the match. Their pressure paid off shortly after the half-hour mark when Aboubakary Koita put Mauritania ahead.

That goal gave Mauritania greater confidence and they protected their advantage through to half-time.

The Central African Republic, known as the Fauves du Bas-Oubangui, returned after the interval determined to respond and found an equaliser only a few minutes into the second half.

Their hopes of completing a comeback were short-lived, however. Dawda Camara restored Mauritania’s lead in the 69th minute, giving the Mourabitounes renewed momentum.

The Central African Republic continued to search for another equaliser but were unable to find one. Instead, Mauritania sealed the result late on when substitute Mamadou Diallo scored in the 89th minute.

The 3-1 victory gives Mauritania an ideal start to their bid to qualify for CAN 2027.

The Mourabitounes will face the Guepards of Benin on 29 September, while the Fauves du Bas-Oubangui will play the Etalons of Burkina Faso.