Former AFC Leopards midfielder joins Somalia squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers

© KMC

FOOTBALL Former AFC Leopards midfielder joins Somalia squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers

Festus Chuma 05:35 - 08.11.2023

Former AFC Leopards star Ibrahim Mao has earned a call-up to Somalia national team ahead of 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Former AFC Leopards midfielder Ibrahim Mao has clinched a spot on the Somalia national team's roster for the much-anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The talented Tanzania-based midfielder is set to make waves on the international stage as he dons the jersey of the Ocean Stars.

Somalia's national team is gearing up for a crucial clash against Algeria on November 13, followed by a highly anticipated showdown with Uganda on November 21.

These matches will take place on the turf of Morocco, which Somalia has chosen as its home ground for the World Cup qualifier clashes.

Ibrahim Mao's journey to the national team began in 2016 when he burst into the spotlight during the KPL U20 tournament while playing for Sofapaka.

His remarkable performances caught the attention of AFC Leopards, who wasted no time in securing his signature.

However, this move was not without its share of challenges, as a legal dispute arose between the two clubs.

Eventually, the matter was resolved with the Leopards compensating the 2009 league champions, allowing Mao to continue his football journey.

Mao's recent stint in Kenya was with Kibera United earlier this year where he stayed for a period of four months, during which he made a significant impact on the pitch.

Before that, he had embarked on a loan deal with the FKF Division One club, a move that saw him leave Horseed SC of Somalia.

Mao's journey in the world of football has been marked by constant movement and growth.

His latest adventure took him to the Tanzanian Premier League, where he joined a Kindoni-based club at the beginning of the 2023/2024 season.

Follow Pulse Sports WhatsApp channel for more news.

Tags: