Match Overview
The Central African Republic (CAR) will face Madagascar on March 19, 2025, at 17:00 Central Africa Time (CAT) in a critical FIFA World Cup Africa qualifier. The match will be held at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco, a neutral venue for the encounter.
This fixture marks a pivotal moment in Group I of the CAF World Cup qualifiers, with both teams eager to secure a victory to bolster their chances of advancing. The Central African Republic currently holds four points from four matches, reflecting a record of one win, one draw, and two losses. Meanwhile, Madagascar has struggled in recent outings, failing to secure a win in their last seven matches.
Head-to-Head (H2H) Statistics
Historically, the Central African Republic and Madagascar have faced each other six times. The records stand as follows:
- Central African Republic Wins: 3
- Madagascar Wins: 1
- Draws: 2
- Average Goals Per Game: 2.83
This indicates a tendency for open and attacking play whenever these two teams meet.
Recent Form
Central African Republic Last 5 Matches
- March 23, 2022: Lost 1-3 against Tanzania (Away)
- November 16, 2021: Lost 1-3 against Liberia (Away)
- November 13, 2021: Lost 1-2 against Cape Verde (Away)
- October 10, 2021: Lost 0-2 against Nigeria (Home)
- October 7, 2021: Won 1-0 against Nigeria (Away)
Madagascar Last 5 Matches
- November 14, 2021: Drew 1-1 vs. Tanzania (Home)
- November 11, 2021: Lost 0-2 vs. Benin (Away)
- October 10, 2021: Won 1-0 vs. DR Congo (Home)
- October 7, 2021: Lost 0-2 vs. DR Congo (Away)
- September 7, 2021: Lost 2-3 vs. Tanzania (Away)
Team Analysis
Central African Republic
The Central African Republic have been stubborn in recent matches, notably defeating Cameroon on away goals in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying. However, their World Cup qualification has been patchy, with only one win from four matches.
Their defensive vulnerabilities have been evident, conceding goals in all of their recent games. At the attack, they have managed to score but do not possess the consistency needed to win matches.
Madagascar
Madagascar's form has been a concern, with a seven-game winless streak summing up their struggles. Their away form is particularly alarming, having lost eight of their last ten away matches and failing to score in eight of those games. This failure to hit the back of the net, coupled with defensive weaknesses, has arrested their progress in the qualifiers.
Predicted Lineups
Central African Republic Starting XI (4-4-2 Formation)
- Goalkeeper: Geoffrey Lembet
- Defenders: Peter Guinari, Saint-Cyr Ngam-Ngam, Fernander Kassaï, Steve Yago
- Midfielders: Louis Mafouta, Tresor Toropité, Amos Youga, Eudes Dagoulou
- Forwards: Vianney Mabidé, Salif Keïta
Madagascar Starting XI (4-3-3 Formation)
- Goalkeeper: Melvin Adrien
- Defenders: Jérôme Mombris, Thomas Fontaine, Pascal Razakanantenaina, Romain Métanire
- Midfielders: Marco Ilaimaharitra, Anicet Abel, Ibrahim Amada
- Forwards: Carolus Andriamatsinoro, Lalaina Nomenjanahary, Paulin Voavy
Match Prediction
Based on the recent form and head-to-head records, the Central African Republic appears to have a slight advantage in this fixture. Madagascar's recent poor run, particularly in away fixtures, could turn out to be the decider.
Predicted Score:
Central African Republic 2-1 Madagascar
Live Score & Updates
For live scores and real-time updates, websites such as Sofascore and FlashScore offer extensive coverage, which includes:
- Commentary minute-by-minute
- Statistics for the match
- Live heatmaps and visuals
Catch the live score on: Sofascore Live
Conclusion
The upcoming clash between the Central African Republic and Madagascar is a do-or-die match in their World Cup qualifying campaigns. Both teams need to win if they are to stay in the running for qualification. Fans can expect a competitive match, with the two sides leaving no stone unturned in their quest for a crucial victory.
Keep an eye on this space for live updates, post-match reviews, and highlights when the match is complete! ⚽