The Comoros national football team leads Group I in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and aims to confirm their status following successful AFCON qualification. Coach Stefano Cusin discusses their preparation and strategies ahead of significant matches against Mali and Chad, highlighting key player developments and the team’s evolution. Their objective remains to compete fiercely and continue their rise in African football.
The Comoros national football team is experiencing a significant rise as they lead Group I in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. With a historic qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the team now aims to solidify its reputation within African football. Coach Stefano Cusin has expressed confidence in the team’s development while preparing for upcoming matches against Mali and Chad.
In reflecting on the team’s recent success, Coach Cusin stated that the initial aim of rebuilding the team, integrating young players, and qualifying for the AFCON has been accomplished. He emphasized the continuous evolution of the squad, which aims to maintain competitiveness in every match.
The upcoming match against Mali poses a notable challenge for the Comoros, as Mali remains undefeated under their coach Tom Saintfiet. Cusin acknowledges the individual talent of players such as Yves Bissouma and El Bilal Touré while also highlighting that his own team possesses players capable of impacting the game. He remarked on the importance of delivering their best performance, stressing that: “The main thing is that at the end of the match, we can say that we gave our all, that we have nothing to reproach ourselves for. That’s what matters.”
A significant boost for the team comes from the inclusion of 18-year-old Aboubacar Ali Abdallah, a promising talent who has previously played for France’s U19 squad. Cusin views Abdallah’s commitment to the Comoros as indicative of a broader shift in African football towards players representing their home countries.
Furthermore, the return of Adel Mahamoud from injury is a welcomed development for the team. Cusin considers Mahamoud a crucial player for the team’s future and believes his reintegration is vital for continuity in their project. Conversely, El Fardou Ben Mohamed remains sidelined due to injury, while Faïz Mattoir’s situation remains complex after a failed transfer; nevertheless, Cusin continues to value Mattoir’s experience and contributions.
As the Comoros prepare for these vital matches, their objective is clear: to continue their ascent and make a mark on both the continental and global football stages. The forthcoming clashes against Mali and Chad will be instrumental in their journey towards further successes in the qualifiers.
In summary, as the Comoros national team embarks on a promising journey in the World Cup qualifiers, they are poised for significant challenges ahead. Coach Stefano Cusin’s insights reflect a well-prepared squad, incorporating emerging talents and returning key players. With crucial matches on the horizon, the team’s ambition to establish their presence in African football is evident, making their performance against Mali and Chad pivotal for future successes.
Original Source: www.panafricafootball.com
