Mauritania delivered a strong home performance to defeat Central African Republic 3-1 in their CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture at the Stade Cheikha Ould Boïdiya in Nouakchott. The result gave the hosts a valuable three points and added momentum to their campaign as they chase a place among Africa’s elite.

Match Overview

Mauritania began the match with intent, pressing high and forcing Central African Republic into early mistakes. The home side’s midfield controlled the rhythm, while the front three stretched the opposition defence with quick combinations and direct running. Central African Republic grew into the game in patches, but they struggled to contain Mauritania’s transitions once the hosts won the ball back.

First Half

Mauritania broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when Aboubakar Kamara latched onto a through ball and finished calmly past the goalkeeper. The lead was doubled shortly before the half-hour mark, with Hemeya Tanjy arriving at the back post to convert a low cross. Central African Republic responded with a spell of pressure and pulled one back through Louis Mafouta, whose sharp movement inside the box created just enough space for a low finish.

Second Half

After the break, Central African Republic pushed more players forward in search of an equaliser, but that approach left gaps at the back. Mauritania absorbed the pressure and struck again in the 67th minute when Pape Ibnou Ba finished off a counter-attack. From there, the hosts managed the game well, slowing the tempo and limiting clear chances for the visitors.

Key Moments

• 18’ — Aboubakar Kamara opens the scoring for Mauritania with a composed finish.
• 29’ — Hemeya Tanjy doubles the lead after a flowing move down the right.
• 41’ — Louis Mafouta pulls one back for Central African Republic.
• 67’ — Pape Ibnou Ba restores Mauritania’s two-goal cushion on the counter.
• 84’ — Mauritania’s goalkeeper makes a late save to preserve the 3-1 scoreline.

Tactical Story

Mauritania’s 4-3-3 shape worked effectively, especially in the first half. Their midfield trio won second balls and quickly released the wide forwards, forcing Central African Republic’s full-backs into difficult defensive decisions. Central African Republic used a 4-2-3-1 and found some joy through Mafouta, but their press was inconsistent and they were repeatedly exposed when they lost possession in advanced areas.

Standout Players

Aboubakar Kamara was a constant threat with his movement and finishing, while Hemeya Tanjy’s energy in the final third caused problems throughout. Pape Ibnou Ba’s goal capped a disciplined team performance. For Central African Republic, Louis Mafouta was the brightest attacking outlet, showing why he remains one of the team’s most important players.

What It Means

The win strengthens Mauritania’s position in the CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifying race and gives them confidence ahead of their next fixtures. For Central African Republic, the defeat leaves them with work to do, particularly defensively, as they look to recover ground in the group. Mauritania’s ability to score in different ways — set-piece pressure, counter-attacks, and wide combinations — will be a major asset if they are to secure qualification.