Comoros Shine in AFCON Qualifiers
Comoros qualify for AFCON, led by coach Stefano Cusin, after topping group with wins over Tunisia and Madagascar.
“The Comoros approached me several years ago to rebuild the team, change players, give the squad a new identity...”
Comoros coach Stefano Cusin is urging his team to “think like a big team” as they prepare to take on favorites Morocco in the AFCON opener. The Comoros squad has undergone a significant transformation under Cusin's leadership, climbing 30 places in the FIFA rankings and topping a tough qualification group.
With a rebuilt squad and renewed belief, Comoros is embracing the underdog role and looking to spring a surprise in the tournament. Cusin's team has shown impressive spirit and determination, and they'll need it to take on the hosts and favorites Morocco in Rabat.
“It’s a big honor for the country, the players and the coaching staff. It’s the opening game, a brand new stadium, and against such a strong team,” head coach Stefano Cusin says from his home in Italy.
“Morocco is the best team in Africa for sure, and one of the best in the world. They have a very strong federation, their U20 team are World Cup winners… For us, it will be tough, but at the same time, we have nothing to lose. We have a quality team and can play without pressure. I expect a great game.”
Coach Amir Abdou's words are music to the ears of Comoros fans. The Comoros national team is indeed punching above its weight, and this squad has shown remarkable spirit and determination. With most players competing in lower divisions, they're not expected to make a huge impact, but that could be the perfect recipe for a surprise.
QUALIFIED. ✅
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) November 15, 2024
Comoros book their #AFCON2025 ticket! 🇰🇲 pic.twitter.com/IwYfXZgxi0
By embracing the underdog role, Comoros can play freely and take on the big boys. They're already making history by qualifying for AFCON, and who knows, they might just go all the way and make their mark on the tournament.
The Comoros players are likely loving the pressure-free environment, and that confidence could take them far. Who's to say they can't cause an upset and make their presence felt in the tournament? The underdog story is always the most compelling, and Comoros is writing their own chapter.
“We want to enjoy it, play without pressure and without limits,” Cusin says of Comoros’ targets at the AFCON. “In the group, we play against Morocco, Zambia and Mali - three teams we’ve never beaten before. So if I have to set a goal, I want to change our history,” he says, hinting at hopes of finally beating at least one of the teams.
A Grueling Group Stage Ahead
Group A is shaping up to be a tough nut to crack, with Morocco, Zambia, Mali, and Comoros going head-to-head. The hosts, Morocco, have automatic qualification and are the top-ranked African team, making them the favorites to win it all.
Comoros' qualification was a major shocker, finishing top of a group that included Tunisia, Gambia, and Madagascar without dropping a point. Their 1-0 win over Tunisia was a standout moment, showcasing their strength and determination.
The real challenge begins now, and Comoros will need to dig deep to compete with the best. Morocco's strength is evident, while Zambia and Mali are also formidable opponents. Comoros' biggest asset is their mentality - they've already proven they're not to be underestimated.
“It’s a question of mentality. A coach needs to think his team is better than any other team, even if it’s not true at the moment. I always ask my players to think like a big team,” Cusin tells Flashscore of his approach when recalling the triumph in the port town of Rades.
“Before the game against Tunisia, I told them: 'You are not third-division players. You are Chelsea’s centre-back. You are Juventus’ striker. You play for Real Madrid.' I wanted to give them self-confidence,” he remembers.
“Maybe Tunisia expected us to just defend, but we played with three forwards and were very offensive. After taking four points against Tunisia, I was sure we would qualify.”
The Comoros national team has a special bond with their fans, and it's easy to see why. After being forced to play their home games away due to CAF stadium standards, they finally got to return home and play in front of their passionate supporters. The energy was electric, and the team responded with two wins against Namibia in friendlies.
Coach Stefano Cusin remembers the incredible reaction of the fans when Comoros returned home to play. “It was an amazing feeling,” he said. “The fans were ecstatic, and it gave us a huge boost. We knew we had a special team, but to have the support of the home crowd was incredible.”
The Comoros national team is on the rise, and this new era of football is exciting. With a stadium that meets CAF standards and a team that's hungry for success, the future is bright. The team's progress has been remarkable, and they're ready to take on the best of Africa.
“The supporters of Comoros are unbelievable. They are crazy for football,” Cusin says with a smile. “When we returned in November, the way they welcomed us was incredible. From the airport to the hotel, the streets were full of people. The stadium was full for both games. The people are incredible. We love them and we want to play for them,” he adds.
Stefano Cusin's Comoros squad is getting younger, with most of the previous AFCON players being replaced. In Namibia, seven players between 18 and 20 made an appearance, showing the team's focus on youth.
“The Comoros approached me several years ago to rebuild the team, change players, give the squad a new identity. It was tough, but we have progressed 30 positions in the FIFA ranking. We have won almost 60% of our games,” Cusin recalls.
“But as I said, we are not Nigeria or Senegal. You cannot ask me to win the AFCON. You can ask me to play great and maybe be the surprise. We never know.”
Stefano Cusin's Comoros squad is getting younger, with most of the previous AFCON players being replaced. In Namibia, seven players between 18 and 20 made an appearance, showing the team's focus on youth.
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