FIFA Confirms Venue Change for Ghana vs Central African Republic World Cup Qualifier
FIFA has officially confirmed a change of venue for Ghana’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against the Central African Republic (CAR). The game, initially scheduled to take place at the El Abdi Stadium in El Jadida, Morocco, will now be played at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknes. Kick-off remains set for Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT).
The change was necessitated by the Central African Republic’s lack of an approved home stadium that meets FIFA’s standards. As a result, the match had to be moved to a neutral venue, with Morocco once again serving as host.
To adjust to the new arrangements, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) announced that the Black Stars will set up camp in Morocco instead of assembling in Accra. The decision was taken due to limited preparation time and travel logistics, making it more convenient for players to converge directly in Morocco ahead of the game.
Head coach Otto Addo has already submitted his squad list, which is expected to be released soon. Ghana, who currently lead Group I with 19 points, are aiming for a vital win that would edge them closer to sealing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After the encounter with CAR, the Black Stars will return home to host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
FIFA has also named the officiating team for the Meknes clash. Mauritius’ Patrice Milazare will serve as the center referee, assisted by Louis Ralph Fabien Cauvelet (Mauritius) and Shaji Padayachy (Seychelles). The fourth official will be Noris Aaron Godfrey Arissol from Seychelles. Other officials include referee assessor Fatou Gaye (Senegal), match commissioner Jamal Kaouachi (Morocco), and security officer Efughu Odochi Joan (Nigeria).
With the World Cup qualification race entering its final stages, the Black Stars will be under pressure to deliver in Morocco as they seek to strengthen their lead and secure a ticket to the global showpiece in 2026.
