HIBAPRESS-RABAT-CAF
The Mauritania national beach soccer team has undergone significant development since its creation, gradually making a name for itself on the continental and international scene. Beach soccer, a dynamic and spectacular discipline, is seeing its development grow in Mauritania, fueled by the enthusiasm of the public and the potential of its players.
Mauritania profile
Nickname: The Mourabitounes
Selector: Moussa Baghayogho Captain: Mohamed Diallo
Launched in the early 2000s, the Mauritanian team initially faced major challenges, particularly in terms of resources and infrastructure. However, thanks to the passion of the players and the commitment of federal leaders, the country is beginning to assert itself on the sand. The first major step in this evolution occurs when participating in regional competitions, where players gain experience and develop their skills.
In 2010, Mauritania made its debut in African beach soccer competitions, marking a turning point in its history. The qualifiers for the African Beach Soccer Cup of Nations allow the team to compete against more experienced nations, such as Senegal and Nigeria. This exhibition not only strengthens team spirit, but also generates growing interest in sports in the country.
In 2023, Mauritania achieved an impressive performance during the Arab Beach Soccer Cup, reaching the quarter-finals, before eliminating double African champion Nigeria during the qualifiers for this edition of the African Cup of Nations. . Latest performance to date, a victory against Senegal, seven-time African champions in a friendly.
The coach: Moussa Baghayogho
Moussa Baghayogho is a name that resonates with pride in the Mauritanian sporting landscape. Former captain of the Mourabitounes, the national football team, during the 2014 and 2018 African Nations Championships (CHAN), Baghayogho was able to transcend his role as a player to become a respected leader in the world of beach soccer.
Born in Nouakchott, Baghayogho began his football career on sand pitches, a passion that would lead him to represent his country at the highest level. As a central defender, he was known for his commitment on the pitch and his ability to inspire his teammates. His determination and sense of the game quickly propelled him to the heights of national football, where he gained valuable experience.
After hanging up his boots, Baghayogho decided to devote himself to training, turning to beach soccer, a booming discipline in Mauritania. As coach of the national beach soccer team, he managed to build a competitive team, capable of competing with the best African nations. Under his leadership, the team enjoyed several successes on the continental stage, reaching important final stages.
Baghayogho doesn’t just lead; he is also a mentor to young players, passing on his passion and expertise to them. His vision for the development of beach soccer in Mauritania is clear: to make the national team a pillar of African football. Thanks to his leadership and dedication, Moussa Baghayogho continues to mark the history of sport in Mauritania, inspiring a new generation of players to follow in his footsteps on the sand courts.
The key player: El Hadj Thierno Mama Niang
El Hadj Thierno Mama Niang stands out as one of the most promising beach soccer players in Mauritania. Born in Nouakchott, he showed exceptional talent for the sport from a young age, attracting the attention of local coaches and clubs. His career took a turn when he joined the national team, where he quickly became a key player.
Niang stands out for his speed, his refined technique and his ability to score decisive goals. His vision of the game allows him to position himself intelligently on the pitch, giving his teammates plenty of opportunities to shine. During African competitions, he plays a crucial role in the team’s performances, contributing to notable results, especially in recent tournaments.
Off the field, Niang embodies the values of determination and hard work, inspiring many young Mauritanian players. With her ambition and dedication, El Hadj Thierno Mama Niang is well on her way to becoming an emblematic figure of beach soccer in Mauritania, with the hope of making her country shine on the continental scene.
Mauritania’s matches in Group B
20/10
Senegal – Mauritania I 3:00 p.m. (local time)
21/10
Mozambique – Mauritania I 4:30 p.m. (local time)
22/10
Malawi – Mauritania I 4:30 p.m. (local time)
