World Cup Qualifying: Madagascar overcome Central African Republic

Madagascar gave life to their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they defeated Central Africa Republic by a 2-0 score on Thursday.

The Islanders were brimming with confidence having clocked ten points from their last six qualifying games heading into the clash against CAR at the Stade Larbi Zaouli.

Lausanne Ouchy forward Warren Caddy sent Madagascar fans into joy when he opened the score in added time of the first half. The Barea, who were bent on winning the three points, held their guns into the half time break with the 1-0 lead.

The second half was evenly matched but it was Madagascar who added more bite in midfield and attack, controlling ball possession. Their incessant pressure on Central Africa paid off the 59th minute when El Gouna forward, Arnaud Randrianantenaina doubled the lead. The score line of 2-0 closed the game for head coach Corentin Martins and his charges.

Madagascar now move into second on 13 points from seven matches, one better than Comoros who are away to Mali and three points adrift of Ghana, who were held to a 1-1 draw by bottom placed Chad on Thursday. Mali have nine points, Central Africa sit on five points with Chad on one point.

Group I Table

1. Ghana- 16 points (7 games played)
2. Madagascar- 13 points (7 games)
3. Comoros- 12 points (6 games)
4. Mali- 9 points (6 games)
5. Central African Republic- 5 points (7 games)
6. Chad- 1 point (7 games)

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