Comoros moved to within a point of Group I leaders Ghana after a controlled 2-0 victory over Central African Republic in Meknès on Sunday, significantly tightening the race for automatic qualification to the 2026 World Cup.
The result lifts the Indian Ocean islanders to second place with 15 points from eight matches, whilst simultaneously confirming Central African Republic’s elimination from contention for football’s premier tournament.
Youssouf M’Changama and Myziane Maolida provided the decisive moments in the first half as Comoros bounced back impressively from their 3-0 defeat to Mali in midweek.
Central African Republic began the match with intent and nearly took an early lead when Moustapha Djimet’s glancing header from a right-wing cross struck the post on 15 minutes.
However, Comoros settled into their rhythm and opened the scoring with their first meaningful attack. Neat build-up play involving Rafiki Saïd Ahumada allowed Maolida to lay the ball into captain M’Changama’s path, and the midfielder unleashed a thunderous drive from distance that flew beyond the goalkeeper on 20 minutes.
The visitors doubled their advantage nine minutes before the interval when Faïz Selemani’s pace down the right flank created space for a dangerous low cross. Maolida showed excellent strength to hold off his marker before finishing emphatically to give his side a comfortable cushion.
Central African Republic enjoyed more possession after the break but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities as Comoros defended resolutely, dealing confidently with aerial bombardments and set-piece situations.
The victory maintains Comoros’ remarkable progress in their quest for a maiden World Cup appearance, moving them just one point behind Ghana, who have played one game fewer.
Madagascar remain in contention with 13 points from seven matches, whilst Mali sit fourth with 12 points from seven games. At the foot of the table, Central African Republic have five points from eight matches, with Chad bottom on one point from seven.
With only group winners guaranteed automatic qualification and the four best runners-up advancing to African play-offs, Monday’s fixtures could prove crucial. Ghana host Mali in Accra whilst Madagascar face Chad in Antananarivo in matches that may further reshape this competitive section.
For Comoros, this represents another significant step towards achieving the unthinkable – qualification for their first World Cup finals. For Central African Republic, the remaining fixtures now centre around restoring pride after their elimination was confirmed.
Match details: Central African Republic 0-2 Comoros Stade Municipal, Meknès, Morocco Attendance: Not disclosed
Goals: Comoros: M’Changama 20, Maolida 39
