CAR's Ngato express cautious optimism ahead of 'do-or-die' Mauritania clash

 The encounter scheduled for 5pm on August 9 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium pits two teams in search of their first win in the competition - with the winner standing a chance of getting a spot in the knockout stages.

Fresh from their 2-4 defeat in their first outing against Burkina Faso three days ago, Ngato highlighted the importance of the game, stating that his team will rectify their mistakes and come out all guns blazing to secure a win. 

"This is our second match, while it's the third for our opponent. If we don't win, it will be game over for us. We've discussed with the players to find solutions and up our game."

Ngato described the game as a "tough battle" and stated, "The opponent has played one more match than us; they lost and drew. It will be a grueling confrontation, and we can't afford to make mistakes. If we lose, it will be catastrophic."

Ghislain Moguedi was part of the Central African Republic's loss to Burkina Faso, and he corroborated his trainer's approach: laying emphasis on the need for a victory: "We started well against Burkina Faso, but we lost. We made mistakes, and it's crucial that we learn from them."

He continued: "The coach has given us guidance, urging us to perform at our best, just as we did in our preparations. We, the players, are aware that winning this match is imperative after our first defeat. We'll take to the pitch with a winning mentality, determined to secure a victory. Losing this second match is not an option."

 For both teams avoiding an early exit from the historic TotalEnergies CHAN "PAMOJA" 2024 football frenzy is a need. So the Mauritanians are also keen on getting a result.

Mauritania's coach, Artiz Garay Lopez, considers the match a "make-or-break" encounter, where victory would be a crucial step towards qualification for the knockout stages.

Coach Lopez, stressed the importance of Saturday's showdown: "This is a very important match. We only have one point from our first two games. We played well against Tanzania, but without achieving a good result. This match will be do-or-die; our opponent lost their first game."The gaffer added, "This confrontation can open the door of qualification for us. We need to prepare well. Be physically and mentally ready to seal our fate."

Garay Lopez indicated that his goal is to finish second in the group, considering Tanzania as the favorites for first place. 

"Analyzing the groups before the tournament, I said Tanzania is the favorite of Group B. So, we aim for second place and a spot in the knockout stages. 

He reiterated that the match against the Central African Republic is a real final for his players: "We want to play with calmness and no rush. The opponent is solid. It will be a final showdown for us."

 Mauritanian midfielder, Mohamed Lemine Houboutt declared that he and his mates have victory as the only objective. 

"We know the importance of this match. It will be decisive for our future in this tournament. We'll play with concentration, discipline, and calmness to emerge victorious."