Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: "The challenge and the sporting project of the Comoros convinced me"

On matchday 5 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Group I, Aboubacar Ali Abdallah, who was born in Sainte-Marie (Réunion), was given his debut by head coach Stefano Cusin. He came on in the 81st minute for Myziane Maolida in the 3-0 defeat to the Eagles of Mali at the Berkane stadium. With one cap for the Coelacanths, the 19-year-old spoke about his first steps with the national team and discussed his club future in an interview given to Sport News Africa.

How did your first contact with head coach Stefano Cusin come about?

Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: The first exchanges took place in November 2024. The coach had already been following me since my professional debut with Racing. He was very patient, regularly asked how I was doing, and I found his commitment to me constant and positive.

Also read: 2026 World Cup (Q): Aboubacar Ali Abdallah, newcomer with the Comoros

Why did you decide to play for the Comoros?

Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: Being a dual national, I had the opportunity to play in the France youth teams. After my talks with the coach, I wanted to join the Comoros national team because the challenge and the sporting project convinced me. The project seemed clear and structured to me, with a real desire to bring in young dual nationals. The coach showed real interest in me. Everything happened naturally after that.

"I felt a great sense of pride at being able to defend the colours of the national team"

You made your debut last March against Mali. How did you feel?

Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: It was a powerful, emotional moment. I felt a great sense of pride at being able to defend the colours of the national team. For an 18-year-old player, it's an unforgettable experience. But I stayed focused on the match so as not to be overwhelmed by the occasion.

First cap, first heavy defeat. What didn't work against Mali?

Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: Indeed, it wasn't the result we hoped for. We faced a very experienced team with some big individual talents. We didn't control the ball and we lacked solidity in certain areas. This type of match shows the level we need to reach collectively. It's up to us to learn the lessons. As the matches go by, I'm convinced that all of this will improve.

Is the 2026 World Cup a target for the Comoros?

Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: Today we are second in the group, but I think it's still too early to talk about the 2026 World Cup. We should remember that we are a young nation that aspires to develop. Our first major event remains the AFCON in Morocco.

"The 2025 AFCON is a goal for me, of course"

The 2025 AFCON is in seven months. Are you already thinking about it?

Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: It's a goal for me, of course. It's a wonderful competition for any African player. If I'm called up, it will be an important step. For now, I'm focusing on my day-to-day work. My aim is to be ready and perform well if the opportunity arises. A national team place has to be earned over time.

How has your loan at Torreense gone since January 2025?

Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: I arrived at Torreense in January, on loan. It's a new experience in a new league. Unfortunately, I haven't had much playing time yet, but I keep training very hard and seriously to prepare for the coming season.

"Playing time will remain my priority"

Is a permanent signing being considered? Or a return to Strasbourg?

Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: For now, nothing is settled. I'm on loan without an option to buy until June 2025. I still have two years left on my contract with the club where I came through the ranks. My agents will do what is necessary with Racing's management to define the best opportunities for next season. Playing time will remain my priority.

You are 19. What are your ambitions going forward?

Aboubacar Ali Abdallah: At 19, my ambition is clear: I just want to play football without asking myself too many questions. The idea is to gain experience and improve season after season. In the medium term, to establish myself in a top 5 European league. I also want to keep proving myself with the national team. Every step counts, so I stay focused on the daily work.