The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier between Madagascar and Ghana, originally set to take place in Antananarivo, will now be played in Morocco.
FIFA confirmed the relocation after deeming Madagascar’s national stadium unfit to host international matches.
The match, scheduled for Monday, March 24, 2025, will now be held at the Grand Stade d’Al Hoceima in Morocco.
This is not the first time the Bareas have been forced to play a home fixture on neutral ground due to inadequate stadium facilities.
Ghana seeking crucial points in Group I
Ghana heads into this fixture in second place in Group I, having collected nine points from four matches.
The Black Stars started their qualification campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Madagascar but suffered a setback in their second match, losing to Comoros.
However, back-to-back wins against Mali and the Central African Republic have put them back on track for a place in the 2026 tournament.
A win against Madagascar would further strengthen their qualification hopes, especially with tough matches still ahead.
The Black Stars will be aiming to take full advantage of playing on neutral ground, given that Madagascar will no longer have the benefit of home support.
Madagascar faces an uphill battle
For Madagascar, this change represents a significant setback.
The Bareas had been hoping to leverage their home advantage against a more experienced Ghanaian squad.
However, playing away from familiar surroundings will make their task even more challenging.
Despite this, Madagascar will be determined to upset the odds and revive their campaign.
They currently sit outside the qualification spots and need a strong performance to stay in contention for a historic first World Cup appearance.
With both teams eager to secure a positive result, the match in Morocco is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter.
Ghana will look to continue their push for qualification, while Madagascar will hope to defy expectations and keep their World Cup dreams alive.
