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AFRICA, AMIENS, ASIA, BELGIUM, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC, CHINA, ELOGE ENZA - YAMISSI, EUROPE, GENT, GOD, GROUP STAGE, INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION, INTERNATIONAL EVENTS, KENNY KIMA BEYISSA, KOYALIPOU, LES FAUVES, MALI, QUALIFICATION, RC LENS, RIGOBERT SONG, SOCCER, THE BEASTS, VIRTON
Sophia Klein
Central African Republic Prepares for World Cup Qualifying Clash with Madagascar
The Central African Republic football team, known as Les Fauves, is competing in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and faces Madagascar next. Currently fifth in Group I with four points, they seek to improve their standings. The squad has been rejuvenated with dual national stars and experienced players returning after a disappointing Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Interim coach Eloge Enza-Yamissi continues to lead the team amid coaching controversies, aiming for a significant impact in the qualifiers.
The Central African Republic national football team, colloquially known as Les Fauves or The Beasts, has made significant strides in recent years, emerging as a competitive force in African football. As they prepare to face Madagascar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the team stands fifth in Group I with four points, trailing co-leaders Comoros and Ghana, each with nine points, as well as Madagascar (seven points) and Mali (five points).
The upcoming match against Madagascar is critical for Les Fauves, who aim to close the gap in the rankings and continue their quest for a spot in the World Cup. The group winner will qualify directly, while four out of the nine runners-up will have the opportunity to enter a playoff. Amidst ongoing off-field controversies surrounding the coaching situation, interim coach Eloge Enza-Yamissi remains at the helm, following the government’s appointment of Rigobert Song, which has sparked a dispute with the football federation.
Recently, the team has seen a revitalization with the return of dual national stars and European-based players. Among them is captain Geoffrey Kondogbia from Olympique Marseille, alongside prolific attackers Louis Mafouta and Godouine Koyalipou. Mafouta’s impressive record of 16 goals in 26 appearances highlights his importance to the team, while Koyalipou joins after successful stints in Belgium and at RC Lens in Ligue 1.
The defense is bolstered by experienced French defender Cédric Yambéré, as well as new additions Hugo Gambor and Kenny Kima Beyissa, both representing Belgian clubs. Moreover, young talents such as forward Moustapha Djimet have demonstrated potential through their performances in youth competitions. Djimet’s transition to top capital club Dinamo Minsk following his U-20 Africa Cup of Nations participation signals a promising future for the squad.
With coach Eloge Enza-Yamissi’s extensive experience in French football and the renewed talent within the squad, the Central African Republic is poised to surprise its opponents in Group I as the qualifying tournament progresses.
In summary, the Central African Republic national football team is gradually transforming from an underdog to a formidable contender in African football. With key player returns, including captain Geoffrey Kondogbia and rising star Moustapha Djimet, alongside a motivated coaching staff, the team’s aspirations to advance in the World Cup qualifiers are strengthened. As they prepare to face Madagascar, the potential for Les Fauves to make an impact in their group is significant.
Original Source: www.panafricafootball.com
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