Aboubakary Koita gives Mauritania half-time advantage over Central African Republic

Mauritania lead Central African Republic at half-time in their opening Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying match.

The Mourabitounes took control after an evenly contested start and were rewarded when Aboubakary Koita opened the scoring in the 32nd minute.

His goal gave the home side the advantage and put Mauritania in a strong position after the first 45 minutes.

The meeting is the fourth between Mauritania and Central African Republic. Both teams began the game needing a result before facing the other sides in the group, Burkina Faso and Benin.

Mauritania made the better progress as the first half developed, gradually imposing themselves on the match before Koita’s breakthrough.

Central African Republic, known as the Fauves du Bas-Oubangui, still have attacking options and could pose a greater threat after the interval.