Mauritania’s national football team is gearing up for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) with an exciting squad announcement. Coach Amir Abdou has recalled the experienced El Hadji Ba and introduced teenager Oumar Ngom to the 27-man squad set to compete in the Ivory Coast next month.
El Hadji Ba’s Return: A Seasoned Midfielder Back in Action
The 30-year-old El Hadji Ba, known for his stints in Ligue 1 with Racing Lens and Sunderland, is making a return to international football. Having last played for Mauritania 18 months ago, his recent signing with Mauritanian champions FC Nouadhibou has earned him a well-deserved recall to the national team.
Oumar Ngom’s Debut: Teenager Earns First Call-Up
In an exciting development, 19-year-old Oumar Ngom has received his first call-up to the national team. The teenager, who has played in two French second division games for Pau this season, adds a fresh and promising element to Mauritania’s squad.
AFCON Campaign Details: Tough Group D Challenges Await
Mauritania is placed in Group D for the AFCON finals and faces Burkina Faso in Bouake on January 16. The team will also compete against Algeria and Angola. The experienced Aly Abeid will lead the team as captain, with Aboubakary Koita, based in Belgium, emerging as a potential standout player after his debut in November.
Warm-Up Match and Squad Composition
Before heading to the Ivory Coast for AFCON, Mauritania will play a warm-up international against Tunisia on January 6. The squad comprises a mix of experienced players and emerging talents across various positions:
Goalkeepers: Namori Diaw, Babacar Diop, Babacar Niasse
Defenders: Aly Abeid, Lamine Ba, Khadim Diaw, Nouh Mohamed El Abd, El Hassen Houeibib, Ibrahima Keita, Bakary Ndiaye, Mohamed Dellah Yali
Midfielders: El Hadji Ba, Mouhsine Bodda, Bakari Camara, Sidi Ahmed Mohamed El Abd, Guessouma Fofana, Omare Gassama, Abdallahi Mahmoud, Oumar Ngom
Forwards: Souleymane Anne, Pape Ibnou Ba, Amar Sidi Bouna, Souleymane Doukara, Aboubakar Kamara, Aboubakaray Koita, Hemeya Tanji, Idrissa Thiam.
As the Mauritanian team readies itself for AFCON, anticipation is high among fans. The blend of experience and emerging talent promises an exciting campaign. Stay tuned for updates as the team aims for success in one of Africa’s premier football tournaments.
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Credit: Mark Gleeson and Ed Osmond