Central African Republic appoint Abdelaziz Karkache as new head coach

The Central African Republic have appointed Abdelaziz Karkache as their new head coach as they seek to revive their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign following a disappointing start to the competition.

Karkache takes over the national team at a crucial moment, with Les Fauves struggling to find their footing after failing to secure a victory in their opening two qualifying matches.

The Central African Republic began their campaign with a 3-1 defeat against Mauritania before suffering another setback in a narrow 1-0 loss to Burkina Faso, leaving them under pressure to improve their results in the upcoming fixtures.

The appointment of Karkache is expected to provide a fresh direction for the team as they attempt to get their qualification hopes back on track. The new coach will be tasked with improving the team’s performances and building a competitive side capable of challenging for positive results in the remaining matches.

His immediate priority will be the upcoming double-header against Benin, which presents an important opportunity for the Central African Republic to collect valuable points and revive their campaign.

Karkache’s first assignment will be an away encounter against Benin on Thursday, November 12, 2026, before the two countries meet again three days later for the return fixture on Sunday, November 15.

The second meeting will take place at the Stade Japoma in Douala, Cameroon, with both matches expected to play an important role in shaping the Central African Republic’s qualification prospects.

The new coach will be hoping to make an immediate impact and guide Les Fauves to their first victory of the qualifying campaign as they seek to keep their hopes of reaching the 2027 AFCON alive.