The Central African Republic (CAR) faces a tough test in Marrakech as they take on Morocco in a friendly match this Thursday. The fixture, set amidst preparations for the 3rd and 4th rounds of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) qualifiers, serves as a crucial test for both teams—especially the Fauves de Bas-Oubangui, who are navigating through challenges both on and off the pitch.
🇨🇫 Key Absences for CAR
Three important players will miss the match:
David Manda (Striker) – passport issues prevented him from traveling.
Denis Youga (Defender) – not released by his Chinese club.
Eloge Enza Yamissi (Captain, Midfielder) – sidelined with a foot sprain, though he remains with the team to provide moral support.
Despite these setbacks, Enza Yamissi remains optimistic:
“We have trained and prepared well for today’s match… We must stay confident and give everything on the field.”
🇨🇫🇲🇦 Emotional and Motivational Context
Coach Etienne Kopo acknowledged the psychological burden his players face, referencing the instability back home:
“It’s true that the mood is gloomy because of what’s happening in the country. We have parents who are suffering… But that shouldn’t distract us from our goal, which is to win this match.”
The game is not only a test of tactical readiness but also of mental resilience.
📝 Context for Morocco
Meanwhile, Morocco, host of the 2015 AFCON, is using this friendly to sharpen its squad ahead of the tournament. Coach Badou Zaki is expected to rotate his squad and assess the depth of his player pool.
🕘 Match Snapshot:
Fixture: Morocco 🇲🇦 vs Central African Republic 🇨🇫
Type: Friendly
Location: Marrakech, Morocco
Date: Thursday
Notable Absences for CAR: Manda, Youga, Enza Yamissi (injured)
Despite the odds, CAR is hoping to show fight and unity on the pitch.
