Central African Republic coach Sébastien Ngato braced for must-win CHAN clash with Mauritania

Central African Republic head coach Sébastien Ngato says his side must deliver a decisive response when they face Mauritania in their second group match at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The fixture, set for Saturday, 9 August 2025, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, comes with high stakes for both sides, neither of whom have registered a victory in the competition so far. The winner will take a significant step toward the knockout stages, while defeat could all but end qualification hopes.

Ngato’s side began their CHAN campaign with a 4-2 defeat to Burkina Faso — a result that has left them with no margin for error. The coach is under no illusions about the scale of the task ahead.

“This is our second match, but it is already decisive. For our opponents, it will be their third game. If we fail to win, our journey will be over,” Ngato warned.

Urgent need for improvement

Ngato revealed that in the days following their opening loss, discussions with his players have centred on identifying solutions and lifting the overall performance level.

“We have spoken with the squad to find answers and raise our standard of play,” he said. “We must improve in every department if we want to stay in the tournament.”

The coach also acknowledged the challenge posed by a Mauritanian side who, despite recording a loss and a draw in their first two matches, remain dangerous.

“It will be a tough match,” he admitted. “They have played one more game than us, which means they have more rhythm. We cannot afford any mistakes. If we lose, it will be catastrophic.”

Pressure on the players

The situation places considerable weight on the shoulders of the Central African Republic squad, who must balance urgency with composure.

Ngato is hoping his players can draw on their resilience and experience to overcome the pressure and deliver a result that keeps them in contention.

Mauritania, also searching for their first victory, face similar stakes, adding to the intensity of the encounter. With both sides fighting for survival in the competition, the match is expected to be fiercely contested from the first whistle.

Qualification within reach — for one

Victory on Saturday would transform the outlook for either team, providing a crucial foothold in the race for a place in the knockout rounds. For the Central African Republic, the equation is simple: win or face elimination.

Ngato’s message to his players has been clear — every moment will count, and there is no room for lapses. “This is not just another match,” he said. “It is our chance to show character, to play with intelligence and determination, and to keep our hopes alive.”

As the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium prepares to host what promises to be a tense and decisive contest, the Central African Republic will be seeking to turn the disappointment of their opening match into the spark that ignites their CHAN 2024 campaign.