Mauritania qualified for an Africa Cup of Nations finals for the first time in their history with a 2-1 win over Botswana in Nouakchott.

It’s a very happy day for all Mauritanians, even those who are not football fans. After 58 years of independence, we have never made it this far. But now, it’s a dream come true. I had the chance and honor to be part of the event and witness how football can make us feel united. November 18th, 2018 will never be forgotten.

THIARTIOURA

“I wanted to start with this man, I don’t even know his real name, but when you talk about Mauritanian football, you must include Thiarthioura in your words. This man was deeply a part of the victory. I remember watching games just to see him put some of his magic outside the field, dancing and making others dance with him. To me, he was linked to the Mauritanian football team, traveling with them and creating his own way to support them. When I saw his tears, I realized how amazing this beautiful game can be. I hope to see him supporting the team in the African tournament.”

FFRIM PRESIDENT

Before six years, the Mauritanian football team was ranked as one of the weakest teams in Africa. This young man came to the federation with a dream, full of motivation, and a huge love for football and his country. Things were not easy, but when you believe in yourself and love what you do, you will surely find the results you want. He was a savior, a revolutionary, who saved the federation from clinical death. That day, I was proud to be close enough to see how deeply the love for Mauritania runs through his veins.

The president

The president’s support for the game was a huge motivation for the players. I could see the happiness in his eyes after the game. This is the second time he has assisted a national qualification game; the first one was the CHAN qualification, and Mauritania won against Senegal.

The Players

History will remember them as legends – great nationalists and hard-working youngsters. They managed the game with a lot of experience, and let’s not forget that they were under immense pressure, but they did it and registered their names as the first Mauritanian players to play in the CAN.

The photographers

After the winning goal, I wasn’t surprised to see my mates crying tears of joy and happiness. After all, they will tell their children that they were on the pitch on this historic day.