CHAN 2024: Madagascar vs Mauritania – Preview & Score Prediction
Mauritania arrive with ambitions to outdo their 2022 run, which saw them reach the quarter-finals. Under Spanish coach Aritz López Garai, the Mourabitounes showed improved structure and composure during qualifiers, particularly against Mali. Playmaker El Hacen El Id is expected to play a central role as Mauritania target a maiden semi-final spot.
Madagascar, bronze medallists in 2022, are aiming higher this time. Coach Romuald Rakotondrabe, known for his attacking philosophy, leads a young and dynamic squad featuring John Christiano Razafimanana and Nina Razakanirina. 'Our goal is clear—do better than 2022,' said Rakotondrabe.
The fixture pits two emerging sides against one another. With hosts Tanzania, every point will count in the race for qualification. Mauritania carry a slight psychological edge, having beaten Madagascar in their last two encounters — both in friendlies — the latest in November 2023.
While Mauritania sit 111th in the FIFA rankings (28th in Africa), and Madagascar 115th (29th in Africa), the rankings are unlikely to count for much in a tightly contested group.
Prediction:
Mauritania have the edge in experience and recent form.. A 2-1 win for the Mourabitounes looks the most likely outcome. Tags: afconCAFCHANMadagascarMauritania
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Morocco World
8 hours ago
- Morocco World
CHAN 2024: Morocco Beat Angola in Solid Start for the Atlas Lions
Morocco opened their CHAN 2024 campaign with a 2-0 win over Angola at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi. After a quiet start, Imad Riahi scored the opener in the 29th minute, finishing a pass through from captain Rabie Hrimat. Angola failed to respond before the break, with Morocco holding a narrow lead at half-time. Angola showed more intent in the second half but couldn't break down Morocco's defence. In the 81st minute, defender Kinito scored an own goal, handing Morocco a two-goal cushion and securing the result. In the same group, Kenya beat DR Congo 1-0 thanks to a goal from Allan Odhiambo just before half-time. Morocco lead Group A on goal difference, with Kenya also on three points. Angola, DR Congo and Zambia remain without a point. Morocco will face Kenya next on August 10, followed by Zambia on August 14 and DR Congo on August 17. Tags: AngolaAtlas LionsCAFCHANMorocco
Morocco World
10 hours ago
- Morocco World
Not for Sale: Real Madrid Block Big-Money Bids for Brahim Díaz
Real Madrid are close to finalising a new long-term contract for Brahim Díaz, despite continued interest from clubs across Europe and the Middle East. The Moroccan international turned 26 today amid reports of firm approaches from clubs such as Benfica and Fenerbahçe. Despite that, Real Madrid made it clear: he's staying. Spanish news outlet Marca reports that the renewal has been in progress since June, with both sides seeing his role as essential for the upcoming campaign. His current deal runs until 2027, but the extension would keep him at the club until at least 2029. Real Madrid have rejected all offers for the attacking midfielder this summer, including bids from the Saudi Pro League. Reports suggest one unnamed Saudi club offered as much as €65 million, but president Florentino Pérez turned it down after consulting with manager Xabi Alonso. The club see Díaz as a valuable squad player – versatile, reliable, and ready when called upon. He featured in 56 matches last season, scoring six goals and providing eight assists. Despite being a regular substitute, he played a crucial role in tight fixtures, offering tactical flexibility across several attacking positions. Benfica have shown a strong interest in signing Díaz and are keen to bring in a creative midfielder ahead of their Champions League campaign. However, with no green light from Madrid or the player, the Lisbon-based club are unlikely to make headway. Fenerbahçe, coached by José Mourinho, are also monitoring the situation. Mourinho reportedly sees Díaz as a good fit for his system, but again, there is no indication the player is considering leaving. Real Madrid's refusal to part ways with Díaz comes at a time when the club are open to selling other players. Rodrygo Goes, Ferland Mendy and David Alaba are all reportedly on the list of potential summer exits, as the club reshape the squad under Alonso. With Jude Bellingham sidelined for three months following shoulder surgery, Díaz's presence becomes even more vital. His ability to slot into different attacking roles is seen as a key asset during what promises to be a demanding season – both domestically and internationally. Díaz is also preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco, which will take place between December and January. His absence during that period is one of the few complications Real Madrid will need to manage. The Málaga-born midfielder has built a reputation as a dependable performer in difficult moments due to his high work rate and low-profile style that has earned respect in a squad filled with high-profile stars. His career has seen steady progress, from Málaga to Manchester City, then AC Milan, before returning to Madrid in 2023. Now more mature and experienced. A formal announcement on his contract renewal is expected in the coming weeks. Tags: afconBrahim DiazMoroccoReal Madrid
Morocco World
13 hours ago
- Morocco World
CHAN 2024: Madagascar vs Mauritania – Preview & Score Prediction
Madagascar begin their CHAN 2024 campaign against Mauritania at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. Kick-off is set for 06:00 pm Moroccan time (GMT+1) in Group B. Mauritania arrive with ambitions to outdo their 2022 run, which saw them reach the quarter-finals. Under Spanish coach Aritz López Garai, the Mourabitounes showed improved structure and composure during qualifiers, particularly against Mali. Playmaker El Hacen El Id is expected to play a central role as Mauritania target a maiden semi-final spot. Madagascar, bronze medallists in 2022, are aiming higher this time. Coach Romuald Rakotondrabe, known for his attacking philosophy, leads a young and dynamic squad featuring John Christiano Razafimanana and Nina Razakanirina. 'Our goal is clear—do better than 2022,' said Rakotondrabe. The fixture pits two emerging sides against one another. With hosts Tanzania, every point will count in the race for qualification. Mauritania carry a slight psychological edge, having beaten Madagascar in their last two encounters — both in friendlies — the latest in November 2023. While Mauritania sit 111th in the FIFA rankings (28th in Africa), and Madagascar 115th (29th in Africa), the rankings are unlikely to count for much in a tightly contested group. Prediction: Mauritania have the edge in experience and recent form.. A 2-1 win for the Mourabitounes looks the most likely outcome. Tags: afconCAFCHANMadagascarMauritania
