Central African Republic vs Mali Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds

Casablanca gear up to host Les Aigles.

The FIFA World Cup Qualifiers take us to the Stade Larbi Zaouli Stadium as Central African Republic and Mali lock horns in a thrilling clash.

The Central African Republic find itself in a precarious position in Group I of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, sitting fifth with just one win and one draw from five matches. Their campaign has been marred by inconsistency, and with only a few games remaining, every point is crucial.

A victory against Mali is imperative if they are to keep their slim qualification hopes alive as another setback could all but end their dreams of making it to the World Cup. Facing a strong Malian side, the Central African Republic must capitalize on their home advantage and put in a spirited performance.

Mali have shown promise in their FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, but inconsistency has prevented them from fully asserting their dominance. With two wins, two draws, and a single defeat, they currently sit in a competitive position with eight points.

A victory against the Central African Republic could propel them to second place, bringing them within touching distance of group leaders Ghana. This fixture presents a golden opportunity for Mali to solidify their qualification ambitions.

Kick-off:

• Location: Casablanca, Morocco
• Stadium: Stade Larbi Zaouli Stadium
• Date: Monday, 24 March
• Kick-off Time: 9:30 PM IST
• Referee: TBD
• VAR: In use

Form:

Central African Republic (in all competitions): L-W-L-L-L

Mali (in all competitions): W-D-L-W-W

Players to watch out for:

Cedric Yambere (Central Africa)

Cedric Yambere, the 34-year-old French-born centre-back, has had a career spanning various leagues, beginning with Bordeaux’s reserves before moving on to clubs like Dijon and Ettifaq FC. Known for his defensive resilience and aerial dominance, Yambere has brought experience and leadership to every team he has played for.

Having earned 13 caps for the Central African Republic, Yambere remains a key figure in the national team’s backline. With the squad struggling in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, his presence will be crucial in stabilizing the defence as they prepare to take on Mali.

Bienvenue Cédric! 💙We are proud to announce the signing of Cédric Yambéré! Yambéré (33) joins on a deal for the upcoming season. He has played 107 matches in the French Ligue 1 and has won 13 caps for the Central African Republic national team. Welcome! 💙 pic.twitter.com/uTy1Xlczl5

— KÍ (@KI_Klaksvik) February 27, 2024

Yves Bissouma (Mali)

Yves Bissouma has been a crucial midfield orchestrator for Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham Hotspur, bringing composure, vision and relentless energy to the heart of their gameplay. Before making his move to Spurs in 2022, he showcased his talent at Lille and Brighton & Hove Albion. Since joining Tottenham, Bissouma has made 73 appearances and found the net twice, solidifying his role as a vital component in Spurs’ midfield engine.

On the international stage, Bissouma has been a consistent performer for Mali, earning 44 caps and scoring five goals. His first international goal came against Ivory Coast in the 2016 AFCON, marking the beginning of his impactful journey with the national team. Even in recent times, he has continued to deliver, scoring key goals in the 2025 AFCON qualification campaign against Mozambique and Eswatini.

🤙 @Yves_Bissouma pic.twitter.com/gAFr4FWn0q

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) November 13, 2022

Match Facts:

• Mali have a 50% win accuracy over Central Africa.
• They won three of their last five fixtures.
• The home side lost three of their last five games.

Central African Republic vs Mali: Betting Tips and Odds:

• Mali to win the match
• Toure to score first
• Central African Republic 0-2 Mali

Injuries and Team News:

For the hosts, there are no injury concerns for the next match.

For Mali, Moussa Sylla will be absent due to injury concerns.

Head To Head stats:

Total matches – 02

Central Africa won – 00

Mali won – 01

Matches drawn – 01

Predicted Lineup:

Central African Republic predicted lineup (3-5-2):

Youfeigane (GK); Gambor, Yambere, Guinari; Benamna, Oulengbe, Youmbi, Kondogbia, Urie; Koyalipou, Mafouta

Mali predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)

Diarra (GK); Diakite, Diaby, Niakate, Diarra; Camara, Dieng; Bissouma, Doumbla, Dorgeles; Toure

Match Prediction:

Mali are in sublime form and have secured some dominating victories in their last couple of games. We expect them to extend their winning streak and get all three points in the next game.

Prediction: Central African Republic 0-2 Mali

Telecast Details:

International – FIFA+

USA: ESPN+

Mali – ORTM Mali

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