Central African Republic coach unveils first squad for Benin double-header

Central African Republic head coach Abdelaziz Karkache has announced his first squad since taking charge of Les Fauves for the upcoming double-header against Benin in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Karkache faces an immediate challenge to revive the team’s qualifying campaign after a disappointing start that has seen them lose their opening two matches.

The Central African Republic suffered a 3-1 defeat against Mauritania before recording a narrow 1-0 loss to Burkina Faso, leaving them under pressure to secure maximum points from their next two encounters.

The new coach will be hoping his first selection provides the quality and experience needed to turn the team’s fortunes around as they prepare for two crucial meetings with Benin.

Experienced midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia headlines the squad, while Goduine Koyalipou and Louis Mafouta are among the attacking options expected to lead the country’s goal-scoring ambitions.

The first encounter will take place on November 12, 2026, at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, before the two teams meet again on November 15 at the Stade Japoma in Douala, Cameroon.

Central African Republic squad:

Goalkeepers: Dominique Youfiegane, Kolimba Alladoum, Emmanuel Takolingba.

Defenders: Sacha M’Baka, Hugo Gambor, Julien Kouadio, Noah Ato, Emmanuel Okeke, Fleury Yangao, Severin Tatolina, Peter Guinari.

Midfielders: Isaac Solet, Sami Wattel, Geoffrey Kondogbia, Badara Diomande, Ghislain Mounguide, Junior Sambia, Joël Ngoya, Edwin Ouarchie.

Forwards: Goduine Koyalipou, Louis Mafouta, Mousapha Djimet, Christian Yawanendji, Delphin Mokonou.