By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s national football team, the Ocean Stars, has departed for Mozambique ahead of a decisive preliminary-round clash against Mauritius in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The match marks a critical step in Somalia’s attempt to progress in Africa’s premier football tournament, with both teams seeking a vital result to keep their qualification hopes alive. The fixture is expected to be played on neutral ground, reflecting Somalia’s ongoing challenges hosting international matches at home.
Head coach Yusuf Ali Nur named a full squad blending experience and emerging talent, as the team looks to build momentum in the campaign. The squad includes goalkeepers Abdirahman Mohamud Jamaac, Ibrahim Ahmed Hussen and Said Aleley Hassan, alongside a defensive unit featuring Abel Gigli, Ali Mohamed Omar and Mahmoud Ali among others.
In midfield, players such as Jarma Ibrahim Abdi, Abdirahman Mohamud Sharif and Ilyas Akram Khamis are expected to play a key role in controlling the game, while the attacking line includes Zakaria Nur Abdullahi, Yusuf Ali Ahmed and Abdulqadir Adan Enow, tasked with delivering crucial goals.
Somalia has historically struggled to compete at the continental level, often forced to host matches outside the country due to security and infrastructure limitations. Despite these obstacles, recent years have seen gradual progress, with increased investment in player development and greater participation of diaspora talent.
Officials and fans remain hopeful that the Ocean Stars can translate that progress into results on the pitch. A positive outcome against Mauritius would move Somalia closer to the next stage of the qualification campaign and mark a significant milestone in the team’s ongoing rebuilding efforts.
