**Madagascar focus on fine-tuning ahead of World Cup qualifier against Central African Republic**
Madagascar’s Barea are preparing to face the Central African Republic’s Fauves this Saturday in the first preliminary round of 2018 World Cup qualification. In anticipation of the crucial fixture, Madagascar played a friendly against Top Dom on Wednesday as part of final preparations.
Despite a 2-0 victory, the Barea’s performance was far from convincing. However, the coaching staff are not overly concerned, citing player fatigue as a key factor.
Franck Rajaonarisamba, a senior member of Madagascar’s technical team, explained, “The expatriate players who played for sixty minutes were not in good shape because of their travel. The fatigue was felt on the pitch and they simply need a good rest and rapid rehabilitation in a few days.”
Jean François Debon, national technical director of the Malagasy Football Federation, echoed this view: “It’s quite normal if the expatriate players weren’t at the top of their game. They’ve just had a long trip. I think they’ll be ready against the Central African Republic this Saturday in Mahamasina, and that they’ll be able to give their best.”
The Barea will count on strong support from their home fans during both legs of the tie, scheduled for October 10 and 13. Striker Abel Anicet Andrianantenaina, who plays for Bulgaria’s Ludogorets club, expressed optimism about the home advantage.
“We are expecting the support of the public during the two matches that we will have to play. We will play hard on the pitch and with the support of the public, we can win,” he said.
Madagascar will be looking to leverage their home soil advantage and secure progression as they pursue their ambitions in the World Cup qualification campaign.
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