Chad’s national football team, the Sao, has been hit with a key absence just days before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Defensive midfielder Eric Mbangossoum has been ruled out of the opening matches due to administrative difficulties. Despite not being injured, Mbangossoum’s inability to obtain the necessary travel documents has prevented him from joining the squad in Monrovia, Liberia.
The Sao are set to begin their qualifying campaign for the 2025 tournament in Morocco with matches against Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast, but Mbangossoum’s absence is a setback to the squad’s preparations.
The 28-year-old player, who is currently based in South Africa, has been unable to secure a residence permit in time to travel, leaving Chad without his services for these crucial fixtures.
Mbangossoum’s withdrawal is a significant blow to Chad’s national team.
Known for his resilience and ability to break up opposition attacks, the midfielder has been a mainstay in the Sao’s lineup.
His absence will undoubtedly be felt in Chad’s opening match against Sierra Leone on September 6, and it remains uncertain if he will be available for their second qualifier against Ivory Coast just four days later.
Chad’s head coach, Kevin Nicaise Tatila, now faces the challenge of reorganizing his midfield without Mbangossoum.
Tatila, who is leading the squad into this competitive phase, will need to find alternatives to fill the void left by one of his most reliable players.
While Mbangossoum’s situation leaves a gap, Chad is still awaiting the arrival of four key players ahead of their first training session.
Among those expected to join the squad are forward Casimir Ninga, midfielder Mahamat Thiam, defender Ahmat Ngouyamsa, and Zambia-based player Amine Hiver.
Their inclusion is eagerly anticipated, as they are critical to the Sao’s plans for the upcoming qualifiers.
Amine Hiver, who was the first of the late arrivals to confirm his travel from Zambia, is scheduled to land in Monrovia on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the coaching staff remains hopeful that the rest of the missing players will arrive in time to take part in Chad’s first training session, allowing them to integrate into the team ahead of their opening match.
The Sao’s road to AFCON 2025 begins with a challenging double-header.
First, they face Sierra Leone in Monrovia on September 6, followed by a high-profile clash against the Ivory Coast Elephants on September 10.
Both matches are vital for Chad as they seek to establish momentum in the qualifying rounds.
Despite the administrative setback and the delayed arrival of key players, the Chadian national team remains determined.
Coach Tatila and his squad will need to quickly adapt to these challenges if they are to make a strong start in their quest for a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
With time running short, all eyes are on the Sao to see how they will navigate these early obstacles on the road to Morocco.
