Central African Republic coach Eloge Enza has voiced his disappointment that his team will be unable to play their next Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifying match at home, while also affirming his team’s resilience. The highly anticipated fixture against Gabon, initially set to take place in Bangui, has now been relocated due to stadium restrictions, a setback that Enza believes could impact their home advantage.
Speaking upon his arrival in Bangui on Sunday, November 3, Enza, whose appointment as head coach of the national team is expected to be formally confirmed soon, shared his outlook on the upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifying matches.
Enza’s arrival and expected officialisation mark a decisive moment for the national team, known as the Fauves, which is navigating a challenging path in Group I of the qualifiers.
Reflecting on the implications of not playing at home, Enza lamented, “It’s sad. I would have liked us to play at home against Gabon.
I know that at home, it is impossible to beat us.
Even away, we will do everything to make it impossible to beat us.
His remarks underscore the belief that the team could have benefited from the strong support of a home crowd in Bangui, which has often been a source of motivation for the players.
The relocation of the match comes amid the Central African Republic’s struggle to qualify for the tournament.
Currently, they stand third in their group, with only three points from four games, trailing Morocco and Gabon.
With Morocco comfortably leading the group on 12 points and Gabon in second place with seven points, the Central African Republic’s chances for qualification are slim but not out of reach.
Victory in their next two matches is essential if they are to keep their hopes alive for a place in AFCON Morocco 2025.
The inability to play in Bangui is a significant disadvantage, as the team has enjoyed strong support at home and has historically performed better with the backing of local fans.
Enza’s commitment to pushing forward despite this hurdle demonstrates his optimism and determination to lead the team through a difficult qualification process.
Enza’s arrival in Bangui has brought a fresh perspective to the national team’s camp.
Set to finalise his contract with the Central African Football Federation, Enza has already engaged with local football officials to discuss strategies for the team’s future.
His leadership is viewed as a crucial factor for the Fauves as they face two decisive matches that will determine their fate in the qualifiers.
With only two games remaining, the pressure is on for Enza and his players to deliver.
They will first travel to face Lesotho, followed by the relocated match against Gabon.
Both games are now must-win situations if the Central African Republic is to achieve what many consider a challenging qualification scenario.
Enza’s ambition and determination resonate with fans and players alike, despite the logistical obstacles surrounding the match.
His confidence in the team’s potential to perform on foreign ground underscores his belief in their resilience and ability to rise to the occasion.
As the Central African Republic heads into these critical matches, Enza’s leadership and the team’s resolve will be put to the test in their pursuit of a place in AFCON Morocco 2025.
