Moullec justifies Mauritius squad rotation after second stalemate in COSAFA Cup

Moullec : Photo Credit: Mauritius Football Association.

Mauritius head coach Guillaume Moullec has justified the wholesale changes he made to the team that drew 0-0 with Mozambique on Saturday. The result has left the COSAFA Cup Group A wide open.

Still winless and goalless after two games, the French coach reflected on the match against the Mambas, having made seven changes to the squad that drew with Zimbabwe earlier in the tournament.

The 48-year-old explained that his focus goes beyond the COSAFA Cup, prompting him to rotate the squad and give every available player a chance, rather than relying on a fixed line-up.

“We are in a period where we want to test the players. We could have taken the usual players and tried to win, but if you take into account the next tournament, we want to give them exposure to showcase their talent and what they can bring to the team,” said the coach.

Ahead of the final group match against Bafana Bafana on June 10, Moullec emphasized the need to improve their finishing.

“Our defence is well-balanced, so we should focus on our forwards. We need to score goals and try to win. For our final game, I expect the same spirit.

"I have full confidence in my players. There may be some changes — you never know — but I know what they can do. I want everyone to be involved and take part in the tournament," said Moullec.

The Islanders will be without defender Jean Colin in the final group match after he was shown a red card for a dangerous foul in second-half stoppage time.