Central African Republic seek response as Benin defend 4-1 lead in AFCON 2027 qualifier

The Central African Republic will attempt to recover from a heavy 4-1 defeat when they face Benin in the second leg of their AFCON 2027 qualifying tie on Monday, 16 November 2026.

The Fauves du Bas-Oubangui must overturn a significant deficit against the Guepards, who produced a dominant performance in the first meeting. Central African Republic manager Abdelaziz Karkache is expected to make use of the experience returning to his squad as his side look to produce a stronger display.

Central African Republic

Geoffrey Kondogbia and Louis Mafouta are back in contention and are expected to strengthen the team. Goduine Koyalipou and Hugo Gambor are also likely to play important roles as the Central African Republic try to respond to the first-leg loss.

The probable Central African Republic XI is:

Goalkeeper: Dominique Youfeigane

Defenders: Raphael Yapende, Hugo Gambor, Julien Kouadio, Flory Yangao

Midfielders: Badara Diomande, Geoffrey Kondogbia, Isaac Solet, Goduine Koyalipou, Christian-Theodor Yawanendji

Striker: Louis Mafouta

The fixture is the Central African Republic’s fourth match in the qualification campaign for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027.

Benin

Benin manager Gernot Rohr is expected to retain the structure that delivered such a convincing victory in the first leg. Tosin Aiyegun scored twice in that match, while Junior Olaitan is another key attacking option for the Guepards.

Benin’s squad combines experience with considerable attacking strength, and Rohr is expected to keep faith with the players who established the advantage in the opening fixture.

The probable Benin XI is:

Goalkeeper: Marcel Dandjinou

Defenders: Tamimou Ouorou, Mohamed Tijani, Yohan Roche, Charlemagne Azongnitode

Defensive midfielders: Hassane Imourane, Sessi D’Almeida, Yamirou Ouorou, Junior Olaitan, Rodolfo Aloko

Striker: Aiyegun Tosin

The published match odds list the Central African Republic at 5.80 to win, with a draw priced at 3.85 and a Benin victory at 1.54.