The Central African Republic has been confirmed as a replacement for Congo in the final phase of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.
The decision, announced by the Central African Football Federation (FCF) on Saturday, March 22, 2025, follows FIFA’s suspension of Congo from all international competitions.
Congo had originally secured its place in the tournament through the qualifiers but was forced to withdraw after FIFA sanctioned the country due to alleged interference within its football federation.
As a result, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) reallocated the spot to the Central African Republic, the last team eliminated by Congo in the qualification stage.
In a statement confirming the development, the FCF said: “Following the suspension of Congo by FIFA, the CAF Youth Competitions Committee has decided to reinstate the Central African Republic for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.”
For the Central African Republic, this unexpected opportunity presents a chance to compete on one of Africa’s biggest youth football stages.
The team will now prepare to showcase its talent in a highly competitive tournament, with its group-stage opponents already determined.
The young Fauves have been drawn into Group A, where they will face host nation Côte d’Ivoire, along with Tanzania, DR Congo, and Ghana in a five-team pool.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from April 26 to May 18, 2025, offering the Central African side a platform to prove itself against some of the continent’s strongest youth teams.
With preparations now shifting into high gear, the team will look to make the most of this unexpected opportunity and leave a mark in the competition.
