In a thrilling 2026 World Cup qualifier, the Central African Republic snatched a 3-2 victory over Chad with a stoppage-time strike in N’Djamena on Sunday.
Despite both teams being already eliminated from the tournament, the encounter at Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno delivered full-blooded drama.
The visitors took an early control, racing into a 2-0 lead by halftime. Delphin Mokonou opened the scoring in the third minute, converting Moustapha Djimet’s cross, before Ghislain Baboula doubled the advantage in the 31st minute following slick play from Yawanendji-Malipangou on the right flank.
Chad came out firing in the second half, determined to fight back. Celestin Ecua pulled one back in the 51st minute with a low, precise finish, sparking a surge of energy among the home fans.
The pressure told on the visitors, who saw a flurry of yellow cards as Chad’s momentum intensified. In the 88th minute, the comeback was complete when Marius met Tchoplauou’s cross to level the score at 2-2, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
However, the Central African Republic had the final say. Substitute Karl Namnganda slotted home in the 90+3rd minute, handing the Fauves a dramatic win and leaving Chad stunned.
Though the result does not alter the standings in Group E, it provides the Central African Republic with a morale-boosting end to their campaign, while Chad is left to rue a late defeat after staging a spirited recovery.
