Mauritania’s national beach soccer team is poised to make a lasting impact as they prepare for their debut at the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Hurghada, Egypt, from October 19 to 26.
Despite being newcomers to the continental competition, the team has shown remarkable progress in recent years, proving that they are not just participants but contenders capable of shaking up the established order.
Nicknamed the Mourabitounes, the Mauritanian beach soccer team has undergone a significant evolution since its inception in the early 2000s. Initially, they struggled with limited resources and infrastructure, which hindered their development in the sport.
However, the passion of the players and the determination of the Mauritanian Football Federation set the foundation for what has become a burgeoning beach soccer program.
The turning point came when Mauritania began to participate in regional competitions, gaining valuable experience that helped shape their identity as a serious contender in African beach soccer.
The Mourabitounes made their first significant mark on the African beach soccer scene in 2010, when they debuted in continental competitions.
Their journey since then has been one of steady growth, culminating in a series of strong performances that have turned heads across the continent.
In the qualifiers for this year’s CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, Mauritania overcame stiff competition, including a two-legged battle against the much-favored Nigeria, which they won 6-5 on aggregate.
This victory was a statement of intent, solidifying their status as a team capable of competing at the highest level.
2023 has been a banner year for Mauritania. Their performance at the Arab Beach Soccer Cup saw them reach the quarter-finals, and their momentum continued as they eliminated Nigeria in the qualifiers for the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations.
A crowning achievement came recently when they secured a friendly victory over Senegal, Africa’s seven-time champions, signaling that Mauritania is ready to challenge the best.
At the heart of this transformation is coach Moussa Baghayogho, a respected figure in Mauritanian sports. A former captain of the Mourabitounes, Baghayogho is no stranger to success, having led his team in the African Nations Championships (CHAN) in 2014 and 2018.
His transition from player to coach has been seamless, and his leadership has been instrumental in Mauritania’s rise in beach soccer. Known for his tactical acumen and ability to inspire his players, Baghayogho has built a team that plays with both discipline and flair.
His dedication to the sport and his mentorship of young talent have earned him widespread admiration, both within Mauritania and beyond.
One of the standout players under Baghayogho’s tutelage is El Hadj Thierno Mama Niang, a rising star in the world of beach soccer. Born in Nouakchott, Niang has been a revelation for the national team, known for his speed, technical ability, and knack for scoring crucial goals.
His vision on the pitch allows him to create opportunities not only for himself but also for his teammates, making him a vital component of Mauritania’s attack.
Niang’s performances in recent tournaments have cemented his reputation as one of the most promising players in African beach soccer.
As they prepare to face off in Group B at the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, Mauritania knows that they will need to bring their best to the sand. Their first match, a rematch against Senegal, will take place on October 20.
Following that, they will take on Mozambique on October 21 and Malawi on October 22. Each game presents its own challenges, but the Mourabitounes are ready to rise to the occasion and continue their upward trajectory.
For Mauritania, this tournament is not just an opportunity to showcase their talents but also a chance to solidify their place among Africa’s elite beach soccer teams.
With a strong squad, an experienced coach, and the momentum of recent successes behind them, the Mourabitounes are ready to shake up the continental hierarchy.
As they step onto the sands of Hurghada, one thing is certain: Mauritania is no longer an underdog, but a team with the potential to leave a lasting mark on African beach soccer.
