Meet the CHAN history maker: Bassam’s fourth appearance in Africa’s homegrown competition

Moulay Ahmed Khalil “Bassam” is not just leading Mauritania at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) Pamoja 2024 — he is rewriting the tournament’s history books.

Making his fourth appearance in just eight editions, the 36-year-old forward has featured in half of all CHAN tournaments ever staged, a feat no other Mauritanian player can claim. 

For more than a decade, Bassam has been the face of the Al-Murabitoun on the continental stage, carrying the hopes of a nation through triumphs and heartbreak.

For Bassam, this year’s tournament is personal. It marks his fourth CHAN finals, and despite Mauritania’s stuttering start, he insists belief is intact ahead of a must-win clash against the Central African Republic.

Now, as he steps into what could be his final CHAN campaign, Bassam is determined to ensure his legacy is not only about appearances, but about inspiring Mauritania to reach new heights.

“African teams are proving their global standing,” he says — and for him, that journey begins with keeping Mauritania’s tournament dreams alive.

In a candid conversation with CAFonline.com, he reflected on his side’s setbacks, praised the organisation of the current edition, and delivered a promise to Mauritanian fans: the fight is far from over.

CAFonline.com: In your last match, you suffered a heavy defeat against the host country, Tanzania, in the final minutes. What do you have to say?

Moulay Ahmed Bassam: It was indeed a tough loss, as we conceded in the final minutes despite the players giving their all. It was a difficult match against the host nation, in front of their fans, so it was physically intense. This is football — we lost, but the tournament is not over yet.

CAFonline.com: Mauritania have impressed in spells during the current edition of CHAN 2024 but are still without a win. Why do you think this is happening?

Indeed, the first two matches were good, but in tournaments the most important thing is winning, because that is what qualifies you. Without wins, you cannot progress.
Most of our team are young, and many are making their first appearance at the tournament. This lack of experience may have played a part, but they still performed well. We hope this will translate into victories in the remaining matches.

CAFonline.com: You have one point before your third and difficult match against the Central African Republic. Mistakes are not allowed. How do you see the match from your side?

Yes, we currently have one point, and the next match will be difficult, but our only goal is to win — there is no alternative. A draw might be considered a loss. I believe the players understand this and will give their all, because for us it is a life-or-death match. God willing, we will win it.

CAFonline.com: This is your fourth CHAN finals. How do you view this edition compared to previous ones?

Yes, this is my fourth participation, and I truly believe African football has developed a lot. Each tournament is tougher than the last. In this edition, I have seen excellent stadiums, good hotels, and generally strong organisation.

CAFonline.com: What is your view on African football in general and its development?

African football has developed significantly, not only on the continent but also globally. African teams are proving their standing on the world stage and confirming the value of talent in Africa.

CAFonline.com: Do you have a final message for Mauritanian fans?

We know the Mauritanian public is thirsty for victory and disappointed with our results so far in CHAN 2024. But we must also remember we are not out of the tournament yet. We still have matches to play, the most important being the next one, because there is no alternative but to win. We promise our fans we will work hard to achieve that, God willing.
We will give everything in the final group match to secure qualification. Above all, we want to present a good image of Mauritanian football in this tournament.