2026 World Cup qualifier: Black Stars vs Central African Republic moved to Meknes
International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has confirmed a change of venue for Ghana’s penultimate 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR).
The crucial group stage match, originally scheduled for El Jadida, will now be played at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknès in Morocco on Tuesday, 8 October 2025, with kick-off at 17:00 (16:00 GMT).
CAR, which is hosting its home games in Morocco due to a lack of an approved stadium in its country, will have little home advantage, presenting an opportunity for the Black Stars to capitalise.
Ghana, currently in a strong qualifying position, needs four points from its remaining two matches against CAR and Comoros to secure a place at its fifth FIFA World Cup.
A win in Meknès, combined with dropped points by its closest rivals, could seal qualification with a game to spare.
The match officials for the tie have also been announced. Patrice Milazare of Mauritius will referee the encounter.
He will be assisted by compatriot Louis Ralph Fabien Cauvelet and Seychelles’ Shaji Padayachy. Noris Aaron Godfrey Arissol, also from Seychelles, will serve as fourth official.
Senegal’s Fatou Gaye has been appointed referee assessor, Jamal Kaouachi of Morocco as match commissioner, and Nigeria’s Efughu Odochi Joan as security officer.
