Comoros Football Team on Rise: Coach Stefano Cusin Prepares for Key Matches
The Comoros national football team, leading Group I in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, prepares for vital matches against Mali and Chad. Coach Stefano Cusin discusses the team’s evolution, recent squad changes, and aims to establish competitiveness on the continental stage. Their historic AFCON qualification aims to be a springboard for further success in upcoming qualifiers.
The Comoros national football team, currently leading Group I in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, is preparing for critical matches against Mali and Chad. Following their historic qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the team, known as the Coelacanths, seeks to affirm its growing stature in African football. Coach Stefano Cusin has shared insights regarding the team’s evolution, his selections, and overall aspirations.
Reflecting on the success of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON, Coach Stefano Cusin stated that the initial aims of revamping the team and integrating younger players have been successfully met. He affirmed that the objective now involves maintaining competitiveness in every match, with the team showing consistent growth.
The upcoming match against Mali presents a considerable challenge, as they remain undefeated under Coach Tom Saintfiet since last August. Mali boasts notable players such as Yves Bissouma from Tottenham and El Bilal Touré, who previously played for Atalanta. Cusin recognizes the talent within Mali’s squad but maintains confidence in his players’ capabilities. He stated, “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.”
Significantly, the inclusion of 18-year-old Aboubacar Ali Abdallah, a former France U19 standout, marks a fresh chapter for the Comoros. Cusin views Abdallah’s commitment to the Comoros as indicative of a broader positive shift in African football, wherein young talents opt to represent their nations from the onset of their international careers.
Additionally, the coach welcomed the return of Adel Mahamoud from FC Nantes, who is recovering from an injury. Cusin deems Mahamoud vital to the team’s future prospects and highlights his reintegration as critical for sustaining project continuity.
El Fardou Ben Mohamed is absent from the squad, still struggling with injury and limited playtime. Cusin informed that Ben Mohamed and the medical staff have mutually agreed upon this decision. Meanwhile, Faïz Mattoir’s situation remains complicated due to transfer issues, but Cusin appreciates Faïz’s experience and commitment, asserting his tactical contributions in recent games.
As the Comoros approach these pivotal matches, the renewed squad is focused on sustaining their impressive trajectory in both continental and global contests. Achieving favorable outcomes against Mali and Chad will be vital for advancing in the World Cup qualifiers.
In conclusion, the Comoros national team is poised for critical matches against Mali and Chad as it strives to cement its place in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Under the guidance of Coach Stefano Cusin, the team has established a new foundation, integrating young talents and returning key players. With aspirations high following their AFCON qualification, the ensuing matches will be instrumental in confirming the team’s rising status in African football.
Original Source: www.panafricafootball.com
