Madagascar and the Central African Republic meet on Wednesday in a CHAN 2024 Group B fixture. Both teams need a win to keep their quarter-final hopes alive.
Kick-off is at 3:00 PM Morocco time (GMT+1) at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, and fans can catch the action live on BeIN Sports 6 MENA, SuperSport, and Canal+ Sport.
Madagascar sit fourth in the group, one point ahead of CAR in fifth, with neither side having won a match so far.
Madagascar coach Romuald Rakotondrabe acknowledged the challenge after losing to Tanzania. “Yes, the loss was painful, but we have regained our fighting spirit. We will give everything against the Central African Republic,” he said. The return of captain Dax, suspended in the previous game, could be decisive. “I don’t want to put all the pressure on Dax, but his presence will bring us a lot,” Rakotondrabe added. Madagascar have scored only once in two games, highlighting a need for better finishing.
Dax is ready to lead. “I’m here to lift the team’s morale and fight for the side. We’ll make up for our lack of experience with heart,” he said.
For CAR coach Sébastien Ngato, the match carries added significance, coinciding with Independence Day. “The August 13 is our national day. This match is our final. We must win to honour our nation,” he said, stressing improvements at both ends of the pitch.
Midfielder Ghislain Moquedi reinforced the message. “We’ve lost twice; it can’t continue. We must make our people proud. We respect Madagascar, but we’re here to show our true face,” he said.
Predicted Score:
Both teams have struggled to score in the tournament so far. Madagascar have scored once in two games, while CAR have shown defensive weaknesses. A cautious game is likely, with neither side wanting to take risks early. The most likely outcome is a draw.
Let’s say Madagascar 1-1 CAR
