Mauritania will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Central African Republic in Casablanca on Thursday, with coach Aritz Lopez Garai selecting his starting XI for the opening fixture.
The Mourabitounes are aiming for victory in their first match as they look to make an ideal start to the qualifying campaign.
Mamadou Diop has been chosen as Mauritania’s goalkeeper. His experience and composure will be important as the team seeks to remain organised during defensive phases.
Captain Aly Abeid leads a defence that also includes Jordan Lefort, Lamine Ba and Nouh Med El Abd. Mohsine Bodda and Djeidi Gassama complete the midfield, while Mauritania will rely on Aboubakary Koita, Idrissa Thiam, Dawda Camara and Oumar Ngom to provide the attacking threat.
Central African Republic, known as the Fauves du Bas-Oubangui, have won once and lost twice in their previous meetings with Mauritania.
Mauritania starting XI: Mamadou Diop (goalkeeper), Aly Abeid (captain), Jordan Lefort, Lamine Ba, Nouh Med El Abd, Mohsine Bodda, Oumar Ngom, Djeidi Gassama, Aboubakary Koita, Idrissa Thiam, Dawda Camara