softfootball.com match preview
Morocco will aim to continue their dominant run in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers as they take on the Central African Republic (CAR) at the Stade d’Honneur d’Oujda on Saturday. Morocco sit atop Group B with six points, while CAR are in third place, eager to improve their standing with three points from two games.
Match Preview
The Atlas Lions have been in scintillating form, securing consecutive victories in their AFCON qualifying campaign. A 4-1 thrashing of Gabon followed by a 1-0 away win against Lesotho has set them up perfectly for this double-header against CAR. Morocco, coached by Walid Regragui, are currently riding a six-match unbeaten streak, with four straight wins in which they’ve scored 13 goals and conceded just one.
Morocco’s momentum is boosted by the fact that both matches in this round against CAR will be held at their home venue in Oujda due to the unavailability of a suitable stadium for the Central African Republic. This gives the hosts an additional edge as they aim to cement their top spot in the group.
The Central African Republic had a mixed start to their qualifying campaign. They began with an impressive 3-1 win over Lesotho but followed it up with a disappointing 2-0 loss to Gabon. Raoul Savoy’s side has had a positive year overall, with four wins in six matches, though their defensive frailties remain a concern, as evidenced by their recent 4-3 loss to Ghana in World Cup qualifying.
CAR are competing in their ninth AFCON qualification campaign, still seeking to qualify for the tournament’s main draw. However, their poor away form — losing nine of their last 12 road games — combined with Morocco’s dominance, makes their task in Oujda a daunting one.
Team News
Morocco have had some late changes to their squad, with key absentees like Manchester United full-back Noussair Mazraoui, who withdrew due to a heart-related procedure. Injuries have also sidelined stars like Brahim Diaz and Hakim Ziyech, while rising talent Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal has received his first senior call-up.
For the visitors, CAR will heavily rely on striker Louis Mafouta, who has been in prolific form, netting five goals in his last three matches, including a hat-trick in the World Cup qualifying thriller against Ghana. He’s likely to be partnered in attack by Goduine Koyalipou, while veteran midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia is expected to play a key role in dictating play for the visitors.
Predicted Lineups
Morocco:
Bounou; Abkar, Aznou, Aguerd, Boudlal; El Khannouss, Amrabat, Saibari, Ounahi, Ezzalzouli; En-Nesyri
Central African Republic:
Youfeigane; Gambor, Yoga, Ndobe, Tatolna; Baboula, Solet, Kondogbia, Namnganda; Koyalipou, Mafouta
Softfootball Prediction
While the Central African Republic have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in attack, their defensive vulnerabilities and poor away form make Morocco strong favorites. With home advantage and a deep squad, Morocco should extend their perfect qualifying record.
Final score prediction: Morocco 3-1 Central African Republic
