The first clash in this international break's double-header sees the Central African Republic face Madagascar at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in neutral Morocco on Wednesday in the fifth round of the CAF 2026 World Cup qualifying series.
Les Fauves resume their campaign eager to turn their fortunes around with a crucial win following an underwhelming start of one victory, one draw, and two defeats.
Match preview
Under Rigobert Song's guidance, the Central African Republic will look to build on their strong showing in the African Nations Championship qualification round in December as they seek to reignite their World Cup hopes.
Song was appointed in January 2025, just over two weeks after Les Fauves eliminated his country, Cameroon, on away goals in the second round of ANC qualification, securing their tournament place.
However, their World Cup qualifying campaign has been far from ideal, with just four points from four games leaving them fifth in the standings — five points adrift of Comoros and Ghana, the group's frontrunners — following a dramatic 4-3 defeat against the Black Stars.
Les Fauves also endured a disappointing African Cup of Nations qualifiers campaign, finishing bottom of Group B and failing to book a spot in the main tournament in Morocco.
Still searching for their first appearance at a major competition, Song's men know that victory on Wednesday is imperative to keep their World Cup ambitions alive.
The Central African Republic will take confidence from their strong record against Madagascar, having won the last three meetings by an aggregate score of 7-1.
However, their struggles in World Cup qualifiers remain a concern, with just three wins in their last 20, alongside three draws and 14 losses.
Madagascar, meanwhile, approach this fixture with belief, having historically held the upper hand in this tournament, winning 3-0 and drawing 2-2 in their only previous such encounters.
Newly appointed head coach Corentin Martins, who took charge on January 30, will lead Barea for the first time, aiming to continue their impressive run toward a maiden World Cup appearance.
Madagascar have exceeded expectations so far, collecting seven points from four games courtesy of two victories, one draw and one defeat, leaving them third in the standings and just two points off the top.
After a losing start against Ghana, the Barea responded with back-to-back wins over Chad and Comoros before grinding out a goalless draw against Mali, keeping them well in contention.
However, recent form is a concern, with five defeats in their last nine outings across all competitions, managing only one win and three draws in that time.
Team News
The Central African Republic have named a 25-man squad for this month's double-header against Madagascar and Mali, with six uncapped players earning call-ups.
Five players who started their last match against Gabon in November at the conclusion of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have been dropped, but Geoffrey Kondogbia returns to bolster the midfield after missing the defeat.
Goduine Koyalipou is also back after being absent from the previous two matches, while Donald Benamna, Calvin Bombo, Samuel Nlend, Wesley Ngakoutou, Gabriel Oualengbe and Jacob Youmbi have been recalled.
Madagascar head coach Martins has introduced five new faces to his squad while recalling two experienced campaigners for these crucial fixtures.
Among the fresh call-ups are goalkeeper Thomas Dupire, defenders Jordan Acapandie and Samuel Marcelin, midfielder Clement Couturier and forward Samuel Noireau-Dauriat, all of whom are in line to make their debuts.
Meanwhile, John Baggio and Arohasina Dax return after lengthy absences, adding vital experience as Barea look to strengthen their position in the race for a World Cup berth.
Central African Republic possible starting lineup:
Youfeigane; Guinari, Yambere, Nbobe; Nlend, Bombo, Yangana-Ba-Komi, Kondogbia, Zandanga, Mafouta, Djimet
Madagascar possible starting lineup:
Laiton; Morgan, Berajo, Fontaine, Rabemanantsoa; Raveloson, Ilaimaharitra, Couturier; Rakotoharimalala, Caddy, Raheriniaina
We say: Central African Republic 1-0 Madagascar
With home support absent due to the neutral venue, the Central African Republic could face a challenge, but their strong record in this fixture, coupled with Madagascar's recent struggles, suggests they have the edge to grind out a win.
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