Mauritania opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Central African Republic at the Stade Larbi Zouali in Casablanca, Morocco, on Thursday.
Aboubakary Koïta put the hosts ahead from the penalty spot in the first half after referee Boubou Traoré awarded a controversial spot-kick following a challenge involving Central African Republic debutant Edwin Quarshie.
Central African Republic responded strongly after the break and restored parity less than three minutes into the second half.
Goduine Koyalipou calmly converted from inside the box following a service from Venuste Baboula.
Mauritania regained control and retook the lead in the 69th minute through Dawda Camara.
The forward capitalised on a ricochet after the Central African defence attempted to clear the ball before lifting his finish over goalkeeper Dominique Youfeigane.
Central African Republic’s hopes of rescuing a point suffered another blow five minutes later when Julien Kouadio was sent off after receiving his second yellow card on his competitive debut.
Mauritania then sealed the win in the 89th minute when Mamadou Diallo collected the ball inside the penalty area and finished to make it 3-1.
The victory gives Mauritania a winning start in Group F, while Central African Republic will remain in Casablanca to face Burkina Faso in their next fixture.
Mauritania, meanwhile, will travel to Benin for their second qualifying match.
