Mohamed Youssouf reveals the spirit behind Comoros’ World Cup push

Comoros sit second in Group I of the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, with a realistic chance of reaching the finals for the first time in their history.

For Mohamed Youssouf, one of the longest-serving players in the squad, the team’s rise is the product of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unity.

When I think back to the early years, it’s incredible to be where I am, but on the other hand, it’s not down to chance, it’s the result of work and perseverance, Youssouf told FIFA’s official website.

He explained that the national side has been forged gradually through experience in competitions and by building an atmosphere that prioritises togetherness.

When I started, we were about five or six expatriates and the rest were locals, he recalled. There was a second phase when Amir Abdou arrived. He made sure to have the best Comorians, whether in the Comoros, France, or elsewhere. We tried to form a team. What I liked was that there were no cliques, we really all came together. We knew we were capable of creating a team, and from then on, we helped each other, we all pushed in the same direction.

That foundation of unity, Youssouf believes, created a strong identity and a sense of purpose that has been passed on to every new generation of players. We always said that when the new players discover the atmosphere, see the desire we have and the sincerity we put on the pitch, normally, they won’t want to turn back.

Few expected Comoros to be in contention in such a difficult group.

Drawn alongside Ghana and Mali, both established African heavyweights, the Coelacanths were seen as outsiders.

Yet with four games remaining, they not only occupy second place but could even challenge Ghana for top spot.

Being present in the final sprint with four matches remaining is already a victory for us, said Youssouf. When you see where we come from, with who we are, and with all the humility that is required, it is already a victory. It shows that we are progressing, that we are trying to do things well and that there is also talent.

Asked whether he had ever envisioned such progress, Youssouf was candid: Frankly, I never would have believed it.

Now, with a historic opportunity in sight, the 35-year-old insists belief is growing within the squad. It’s the dream, we all dream of it. We try to have the right mix of humility and ambition. When we step onto the pitch, we don’t tell ourselves that the World Cup is an unattainable dream.

For Comoros, what once seemed impossible has become a genuine possibility—fuelled by perseverance, unity, and the conviction that they belong among Africa’s best.