The Central African Republic vs Madagascar clash is set to be a crucial encounter in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The Central African Republic, struggling with consistency, will be eager to turn things around against a Madagascar side that has shown promise in recent matches.
Both teams are looking to climb the standings, making this fixture a must-watch for football fans. With key players returning and strategies evolving, this game could be a defining moment in their World Cup qualification campaign.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025
- Kick-off Time:
- UK – 4:00 PM
- US ET – 12:00 PM
- US PT – 9:00 AM
- How to Watch:
- TV Broadcast: Not available in the UK or US
- Online Streaming: Available on FIFA+
Key Statistics
- The Central African Republic has dominated their last three international matches against Madagascar.
- The overall head-to-head record:
- Central African Republic wins: 3
- Madagascar wins: 1
- Draws: 2
- The two nations met in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where Madagascar advanced with a 5-2 aggregate victory (3-0 win & 2-2 draw).
- The Central African Republic has a poor World Cup qualifying record, winning only three of their last 20 matches (D3 L14).
- Madagascar, on the other hand, has won two and drawn one of their last three qualifiers, keeping two clean sheets in that period.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Central African Republic
Under the management of former Cameroon international Rigobert Song, the Central African Republic is hoping to regain their competitive edge. They secured an important away-goals victory over Cameroon in the African Nations Championship (ANC) qualifiers, proving they can step up in big matches.
Expected Lineup (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Geoffrey Lembet
Defenders: Isaac Ngoma, Sadock Ndobe, Saint-Cyr Ngam-Ngam, Gervais Kago
Midfielders: Amos Youga, Louis Mafouta, Wilfried Zahibo
Forwards: Karl Namnganda, Vianney Mabidé, Junior Gourrier
Injury News:
- No major injuries reported, but squad rotation is expected.
Madagascar
Madagascar has been impressive in recent World Cup qualifiers, sitting third in the group and keeping pace with Ghana and Comoros. They will be eager to continue their positive momentum.
Expected Lineup (4-4-2):
Goalkeeper: Melvin Adrien
Defenders: Romain Métanire, Jeremy Morel, Pascal Razakanantenaina, Tobisoa Njakanirina
Midfielders: Marco Ilaimaharitra, Ibrahim Amada, Anicet Abel, Tokinantenaina Raveloson
Forwards: Njiva Rakotoharimalala, Loic Lapoussin
Injury News:
- No major injuries reported.
Match Prediction: Can Central African Republic Break Their Qualifying Curse?
The Central African Republic vs Madagascar fixture is a battle between two teams with contrasting fortunes in recent World Cup qualifiers.
- The Central African Republic has shown resilience under Rigobert Song but has struggled in World Cup qualification matches.
- Madagascar is enjoying a strong campaign and sits just two points behind the group leaders.
Prediction:
- Double Chance: Central African Republic to Win or Draw
- Expected Scoreline: 1-1 Draw or 2-1 Central African Republic Win
With the home advantage and a new tactical approach under Song, the Central African Republic may edge this one, but Madagascar’s defensive solidity will make it a tight contest.
Final Thoughts
The Central African Republic vs Madagascar match promises to be a thrilling encounter in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. With both teams eager to secure a vital three points, expect an intense battle filled with tactical adjustments and individual brilliance.
Will the Central African Republic rise under Rigobert Song, or will Madagascar continue their impressive qualifying campaign? Only time will tell.
