RFI: Pape Ibnou, we can imagine this is a huge disappointment after this defeat against Tunisia (0-4) which eliminates you from the CAN…

Pape Ibnou Ba: Yes, a huge disappointment. It was a difficult match. We aimed for victory, but we got off to a bad start with two goals in ten minutes, which made things harder for us. And it was difficult to come back. When we wanted to attack, the Tunisians, with their experience, countered us, and ultimately, the defeat is heavy. It's a huge disappointment. We didn't expect to be eliminated now at all, we really thought we could achieve something in this CAN. We will play the last match which won't change anything for us and wait for the next qualifiers to return to the Africa Cup of Nations.

How do you explain this catastrophic start?

I won't be able to explain it. Even in our first match against Gambia (0-1), we also had a poor start. We failed to get into the match quickly and the Tunisians were realistic in scoring on their first chances. They showed more desire than us in this opening phase of the match.

► To consult: CAN 2022: match calendar, results and team standings

You made the decision to play for Mauritania, just weeks before the CAN, when you could also have claimed a place in Senegal's squad. These are not the beginnings you hoped for?

Yes, I hoped for better, it's true, but I don't regret my decision. I made it because I thought I could bring a lot to Mauritania. Unfortunately, I only played two matches, I'm not happy with my performances, but this is only the beginning of an adventure for me with Mauritania.

Are there positive things to take away from this CAN?

Yes, it's a first experience in CAN, and I did learn things. I've only spent two weeks with the team, it's true that it's complicated to find your feet in such a short time, but it allowed me to get to know my teammates better. I didn't know anyone on the team, and I was well received. We had a good gathering, I have good feelings with everyone, it's a shame we've been eliminated.