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CAF
a day ago
- Sport
- CAF
Ngato proud despite CAR defeat, Balbone optimistic over Burkina chances
Central African Republic head coach Sébastien Ngato expressed pride in his players despite their heavy 4-2 loss to Burkina Faso in what was their historic debut at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN). Ngato urged his team to keep working and insisted their hopes in the tournament were far from over. On the other side, Burkina Faso coach Issa Balbon said his team had mentally found their rhythm following the victory and expressed confidence that the Stallions were on their way to reaching their full potential. Issa Balbon's charges put in a dominant display at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Wednesday, 6 August, overcoming the Central African Republic 4-2. It was a convincing response from the Stallions after their opening defeat to hosts Tanzania. For the Central African Republic, the match marked a milestone – their very first appearance at the CHAN finals. Ngato Acknowledges Mistakes but Praises His Players' Spirit Despite the loss, Central African Republic coach Sébastien Ngato refused to point fingers at his players. Instead, he praised their efforts and took a positive tone during his post-match press conference. 'I'm proud of our players. As I said before, this is our first time reaching this level, and we came here to see how things work at this stage,' said Ngatou. He did, however, admit that individual mistakes played a part in the defeat. 'The goals we conceded came from our own mistakes. This is football. We'll continue working ahead of the upcoming matches.' Still Hope in Qualification – Nothing Has Been Decided Yet Ngato was adamant that the opening defeat had not ended their campaign and stressed that his team still had a fighting chance of progressing. 'There are five teams in our group, and this was our first game. Take Burkina Faso, for instance — they lost their first match but won the second. In this group, anything is possible," he said. "Each team has four games, and this was just our first. It doesn't mean we're out of the tournament. We can bounce back and advance. After all, a team once lost 4-0 and still went on to win the tournament — it can happen again.' Learning Lessons – It's Not the End of the World Ngato preferred to close the chapter quickly on the defeat to Burkina Faso, attributing the result to pressure and nerves. He reiterated his faith in his players. 'We made mistakes due to pressure and tension — maybe because it was our first match. We could've done better, but that's okay. We'll keep working for the upcoming games and see how it goes. The goals we conceded were due to small mistakes, and even though we also scored, what happened was down to some unexpected errors.' Ngato concluded with a message of hope. 'This is not the end of the world, and we can't blame the players. It was just one match, our debut in the tournament. We need to support our players and take lessons from this game.' Balbone Applauds His Team's Strong Return to Form Burkina Faso coach Issa Balbone, visibly pleased in the post-match press conference, praised his players for their big win, which helped them recover from their opening defeat to Tanzania. 'We saw in this match a group of players with determination and drive. They bounced back in both performance and result. We needed to win this match, and we did.' He acknowledged the pressure on his young team going into the encounter. 'There was a lot of pressure on these young players before the game.' Mental Readiness After Scoring Four Balbone stated that the victory, especially the manner in which it was achieved, had helped his team find their mental edge. 'I believe we are now mentally ready, and we will soon reach our true level. The playing style will follow. In this match, we simply needed to win.' He added: 'As I mentioned before, we were suffering from fatigue. The players needed to recover from exhaustion.' A Win That Doesn't Hide Defensive Worries Despite the emphatic victory, Balbone did not shy away from concerns about his team's defensive performance, after conceding two goals. 'I believe we need to work a lot, especially on the defensive aspect. Our backline wasn't solid against the Central African Republic, and that worries us. We will work on that area.' Optimism on Both Sides Despite Victory and Defeat Despite the contrasting results, both coaches maintained a spirit of optimism. Ngato, though on the losing side, held firm in his belief that his team still had plenty to offer in the tournament, applauding their fighting spirit in their CHAN debut. He insisted that the journey was not over yet and hoped the loss would serve as a motivational tool for the rest of their campaign. Balbone, on the other hand, was relieved to see his players recover mentally and hailed the win as a launching pad toward stronger performances in the next matches. Ultimately, the defining theme was the shared optimism from both camps — a trait that underscored the emotional and competitive richness of CHAN 2024.
Morocco World
2 days ago
- Sport
- Morocco World
CHAN 2024: Burkina Faso vs Central African Republic – Preview & Score Prediction
Central African Republic (CAR) face Burkina Faso today at 3pm Morocco time (GMT+1 ) in their second Group B match at CHAN 2024, with both sides seeking their first points of the tournament. Fans can catch the action live on BeIN Sports and SuperSport. CAR come into the game following a defeat in their opening fixture and will be looking to bounce back. For head coach Sébastien Ngato, this match is more than a contest—it's an opportunity to shift perceptions. 'We are here to learn from the CHAN regulars,' Ngato said in Tuesday's pre-match press conference. 'But we're also here for the whole of Africa to discover who we are. I want people talking about us after this match.' Ngato's side qualified for the finals by eliminating Cameroon, marking a historic first CHAN appearance for the Central African nation. Despite their newcomer status, the coach is pushing his squad to internalise a winning mindset. 'We work on tactics and team structure, but above all, we instil the value of winning,' he added. Burkina Faso, meanwhile, are under pressure to respond after a 2-0 defeat to hosts Tanzania. Head coach Issa Balboné blamed the sluggish start on travel fatigue but assured that his squad is now fully prepared. Captain Patrick Malo called for focus, warning that no opponent should be underestimated. 'There are no small teams. We must be serious and concentrated,' he said. Balboné is expected to start with his best available XI, as Burkina Faso seek to climb from the bottom of the group. Tanzania top Group B with three points, followed by Mauritania and Madagascar, who are level on one point. CAR and Burkina Faso remain without a point. The clash promises to be a decisive encounter. A win for Burkina Faso keeps their campaign alive; for CAR, a result would be a powerful signal to the continent that they belong on this stage. Prediction: Both teams need a result. Burkina Faso have the edge on paper. MWN says Burkina Faso 1–0 Central African Republic. Tags: Burkina FasoCentral African RepublicCHAN 2024
CAF
30-07-2025
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2024: Central African Republic team profile
Published: Wednesday, 30 July 2025 The Central African Republic (CAR) is set to make history with their maiden appearance at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Nations Championship (CHAN). This monumental achievement has been celebrated as one of the most exciting surprises of the 2024 tournament. Under the guidance of coach Sébastien Ngato, the Bas-Oubangui Wild Beasts stunned Cameroon in the qualifiers, marking their entry into the African elite. Factfile Nickname : Wild Beasts of Bas-Oubangui : Wild Beasts of Bas-Oubangui Number of Appearances : First : First Best Performance: N/A How They Qualified In a historic feat, CAR overcame Cameroon in the qualification round. After suffering a narrow 0-1 home defeat in the first leg in Abidjan, the team pulled off a remarkable 2-1 victory in Bafoussam, Cameroon, thanks to a late goal from Bertillon Arnold Yangana. Players to Watch Bertillon Arnold Yangana (Red Star de Bangui): Yangana became a national hero after scoring the decisive goal against Cameroon in the qualifiers. Known for his speed and clinical finishing, he will be the focal point of CAR's attacking play in the tournament. Saturnin Ngarsouma (Goalkeeper): Ngarsouma's agility and exceptional reflexes were key in CAR's qualification. His ability to make game-changing saves will be critical in the team's CHAN debut. Coach Sébastien Ngato: A visionary tactician, Ngato has guided the Central African Republic to unprecedented heights. Known for his defensive solidity and effective counterattacking strategies, he employs a 4-3-3 formation tailored to the strengths of his players. With previous successes at the U20 level, Ngato's leadership has been instrumental in reshaping CAR's football narrative. What to Expect Despite their underdog status, CAR enters the CHAN tournament with momentum and confidence. Their upset against Cameroon demonstrates their ability to challenge more experienced teams. With a balanced mix of determination and strategic play, the Wild Beasts aim to make their debut a memorable one by progressing beyond the group stage. Fan Zone Did You Know? Before CHAN 2024, the Central African Republic's only participation in major African tournaments was through their U20 team in 2021 and 2023.
CAF
17-07-2025
- Sport
- CAF
16 days to go: 'We're not just here to participate'— CAR coach Ngato
With just under three weeks to go until the kick-off of the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) in East Africa, Central African Republic (CAR) head coach Sébastien Ngato is rallying his side for what promises to be a historic campaign. Drawn into Group B, the CHAN debutants will face stern competition from hosts Tanzania, as well as seasoned sides like Burkina Faso, Madagascar, and Mauritania. But Ngato, a figurehead of Central African football development, is no stranger to breaking new ground. He guided CAR to their first-ever CHAN appearance after a dramatic qualification campaign, which included a sensational comeback to eliminate regional heavyweights Cameroon. This milestone added to Ngato's growing legacy, having previously led the U20 national side to back-to-back appearances at the CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations. Since qualifying, the coach has remained focused on continuity and tactical discipline, banking on the chemistry of a core group of players who have played under him for years. With the full backing of the Central African public, and even praise from the country's President, Ngato and his squad are aiming not just to compete—but to make a deep run. As Group B prepares for a tough opening schedule in Tanzania, sat down with Coach Ngato for an exclusive conversation on the journey so far, expectations ahead of their CHAN debut, and the long-term vision for football in the Central African Republic. What is the feeling that drives you after having qualified the RCA for its first CHAN? It is a feeling of joy for Central African football and for all the public, of which we are a part. It's a joy for everyone. You achieved this historic qualification after losing the first leg 1-0 in Abidjan. Many thought it was over. How did you remobilize and motivate your team? As I told the players, if we had won the first match at Stade Alassane Ouattara, we might not have qualified. I analyzed the match and made adjustments to the team, which ultimately secured victory for the Central African people. I am proud of what I accomplished with my staff, and we will continue the work. Tell us about the match against Cameroon, a game that will remain historic for your country. This is not the first time I've achieved such a feat. In 2021, when I was coaching the U20 team, we qualified away in Equatorial Guinea during the UNIFFAC tournament. The same thing happened in 2023 when we qualified for Egypt with this group. Many of these players have been with me for 2-5 years. We know each other well, and that group dynamic played a key role. How do you maintain such cohesion within the team? Discipline is the foundation. With a group that has been together for 2-3 years, they understand the instructions and execute them well. Discipline and hard work are the keys to getting results. When did you realize you could qualify? Before the press conference, I told my players that this team and its heritage were entrusted to me by my predecessors. It was my responsibility to return this legacy to the country with results. I was confident even after the 1-0 loss, and that motivation carried us forward. It's the result of long-term work. Describe the atmosphere when you left Bafoussam after the victory. The atmosphere was fantastic. When we arrived at the airport around 6 pm, it was already dark, but the cheering crowd was waiting for us. I was overjoyed. This qualification marked a leap for Central African football, and we achieved something many thought was impossible. What was the reception like? The reception was incredible. Even the President of the Republic congratulated us and extended his best wishes to all Central Africans. His encouragement motivates us to keep pushing forward, knowing we have the nation's full support. What are your objectives for this CHAN? The qualification celebration is over, and now we must focus. Our immediate goal is to get out of the group stage and then see how far we can go in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and beyond. Winning just one match and stopping there is not our ambition. Your qualification earned attention, particularly the gift of a motorcycle. Can you tell us about that? "The motorcycle was part of an initiative to equip heads of department at the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The timing coincided with our qualification, and I see it as encouragement. I thank the Minister of Youth and Sports and the Federation for this gesture." What needs to be done to develop Central African football further? We need continuity and investment in local football. The foundation lies in grassroots programs like U12 and U13 development. With consistent support, in 2-5 years, we will have a competitive team capable of representing the Central African Republic at the highest levels. Do you have a final message for the Central African people? The Central African people are with us, and their moral support drives us forward. Together, we will continue to build football in our country. I thank President Fini Kodé and Celestin Yanindji, who always encourage us to keep moving forward.
CAF
23-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Central African Republic U20 profile: Underdogs with a point to prove in Egypt
The Central African Republic will return to the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations with a sense of unfinished business and growing confidence. After reaching the quarter-finals in 2021 and participating again in 2023, the Fauves U20 are determined to build on past experiences and surprise the continent once again. Grouped in a tough Pool C alongside reigning champions Senegal, four-time winners Ghana and an ambitious DR Congo side, the Central Africans are considered outsiders. But with a blend of resilience, emerging talent, and a fearless approach, they are preparing to defy expectations. Their route to the finals was unconventional. After finishing as semi-finalists in the 2024 UNIFFAC qualifiers, they earned their spot following the suspension of the Congolese Football Federation. Now, under the guidance of coach Bruce Stéphane Abdoulaye, the CAR U20s are eager to make the most of this opportunity on African football's youth stage. Full profile is below: CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC The Central African Republic will be one of the attractions of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON. The Central African country, whose age-group teams are increasingly asserting themselves on the continental scene, will present themselves with the firm ambition of creating a surprise. HOW THEY QUALIFIED The Central African Republic qualified following the suspension of the Congolese Football Federation by FIFA for state interference in the country's football activities. Finalists of the UNIFFAC U-20 Tournament, which they hosted from September 24 to October 3, 2024, the U-20 Red Devils were to represent the UNIFFAC zone alongside the DRC, winner of the qualifiers. But their suspension benefits the Central Africans whom they had beaten in the semi-finals of the qualifiers. Housed in Pool A, the Fauves U-20 will play alongside Senegal, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ghana. HISTORY IN THE TOTALENERGIES CAF U-20 AFCON The Central African Republic discovered the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in 2021 during the edition held in Mauritania. It was a historic qualification since this team, coached by Sébastien Ngato, became the very first Central African team to represent the country in the finals of an Africa Cup of Nations. For a first participation, the Central African Juniors did not disappoint, as they reached the quarter-final stage. The team will qualify for a second consecutive edition in 2023 in Egypt but will not go further than the group stage. By presenting itself this year in a third consecutive edition, the country will try to build on its previous experiences to improve its results. KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH Bercier Eddy Jores Mbaigoto - Captain of the Central African Republic U-20 team, Bercier Eddy Jores Mbaigato (18 years old) has established himself as a key part of the team during the UNIFFAC Tournament. His goal in the 2-1 win over Gabon was one of the biggest sensations of this competition played in Brazzaville, Congo. Serge Nestor Cherubin Kondja - FC SOS striker in CAR, Serge Nestor Cherubin Kondja (19 years old) is the boss of the Central African attack. He has exceptional technical qualities and also knows how to be effective in front of goal. COACH AND TACTICAL APPROACH Appointed head of the Central African Republic's U-20 team in July 2024, replacing Sébastien Ngato who was promoted to the senior team, Bruce Stéphane Abdoulaye will have the heavy responsibility of leading the Central African Juniors to this continental event. The 42-year-old former Congolese defender (19 caps) is a former professional footballer who has negotiated most of his career in France (Grenoble, Clermont, US Orléans, FC Metz) Since his reconversion as a coach in 2014, he has officiated at the head of several clubs in France (Louhans-Cuiseaux, Villefranche Beaujolais II, Bourg Sud, Tarbes PF) but also as coach of the RCA A' team, before being entrusted with this new responsibility in July 2024. Owner of a football academy in France, Bruce Stéphane Abdoulaye is a fan of the seductive game. If his style can vary depending on the opposition opposite, he nevertheless relies on a rigorous organization, to ensure balance and efficiency to his team. TOURNAMENT AMBITIONS AND GROUP ANALYSIS CAR will play in Group C alongside Senegal, a talented and balanced team, the title holders will be among the favourites for the first place in the group. Their talent and technical strength make them a formidable opponent. Ghana are a true powerhouse of young African football, and have a technically talented and physically imposing team. The Black Satellites will be one of the group's biggest challenges. Democratic Republic of Congo are a technically sound team with great ambition and good momentum, DR Congo could represent a real threat in the group.
