Central African Republic (CAR) face Burkina Faso today at 3pm Morocco time (GMT+1 ) in their second Group B match at CHAN 2024, with both sides seeking their first points of the tournament.
Fans can catch the action live on BeIN Sports and SuperSport.
CAR come into the game following a defeat in their opening fixture and will be looking to bounce back. For head coach Sébastien Ngato, this match is more than a contest—it’s an opportunity to shift perceptions.
“We are here to learn from the CHAN regulars,” Ngato said in Tuesday’s pre-match press conference. “But we’re also here for the whole of Africa to discover who we are. I want people talking about us after this match.”
Ngato’s side qualified for the finals by eliminating Cameroon, marking a historic first CHAN appearance for the Central African nation. Despite their newcomer status, the coach is pushing his squad to internalise a winning mindset.
“We work on tactics and team structure, but above all, we instil the value of winning,” he added.
Burkina Faso, meanwhile, are under pressure to respond after a 2-0 defeat to hosts Tanzania. Head coach Issa Balboné blamed the sluggish start on travel fatigue but assured that his squad is now fully prepared.
Captain Patrick Malo called for focus, warning that no opponent should be underestimated. “There are no small teams. We must be serious and concentrated,” he said.
Balboné is expected to start with his best available XI, as Burkina Faso seek to climb from the bottom of the group. Tanzania top Group B with three points, followed by Mauritania and Madagascar, who are level on one point. CAR and Burkina Faso remain without a point.
The clash promises to be a decisive encounter. A win for Burkina Faso keeps their campaign alive; for CAR, a result would be a powerful signal to the continent that they belong on this stage.
Prediction:
Both teams need a result. Burkina Faso have the edge on paper.
MWN says Burkina Faso 1–0 Central African Republic.
