Madagascar and Ghana will face off in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Mimoun Al Arsi Stadium in Morocco on Monday, March 24, 2025. With both teams coming off dominant victories—Madagascar thrashing the Central African Republic 4-1 and Ghana dismantling Chad 5-0—this top-of-the-table clash could significantly impact Group I’s automatic qualification race.
Ghana currently leads the group with 12 points, just two ahead of Madagascar, making this encounter a pivotal test for both sides as they seek to strengthen their bid for a World Cup spot.
Match Preview
Madagascar’s emphatic win over the Central African Republic began on a shaky note as they conceded an early goal, but a quick response from Rayan Raveloson, who scored twice in five minutes, turned the tide. Second-half strikes from Arnaud Randrianantenaina and Lalaina sealed the victory in Corentin Martins’ first match in charge.
The new head coach acknowledged before the game that many doubted Madagascar’s chances of making the World Cup, but his side’s latest performance underscored their determination. Defensively, they boast the best record in Group I, conceding just three goals, while their nine goals scored rank second behind Ghana. This defensive solidity, combined with their growing attacking threat, will be key as they look to claim the top spot.
For Ghana, their resounding win over Chad, coupled with Comoros’ 3-0 defeat to Mali, propelled them to first place. Otto Addo’s men snapped an eight-game winless streak in competitive matches, a run that included a disappointing Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign and failure to reach the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The Black Stars have been the most lethal attacking force in Group I, scoring 12 goals, and will aim to maintain their lead at the top. They also hold a psychological advantage, having edged Madagascar 1-0 in the reverse fixture. With momentum on their side, they will look to complete a double over the Barea in Monday’s clash.
Team News & Expected Lineups
Madagascar:
Coach Corentin Martins is expected to retain the same starting XI that secured a commanding win over the Central African Republic. However, midfielder Lalaina, who impressed off the bench, could push for a starting role.
Rayan Raveloson remains their biggest attacking threat, having netted four goals in the qualifiers so far.
Madagascar’s possible starting lineup:
Dupire; Morgan, Fontaine, Marcelin, Rabemanantsoa; Lapoussin, Couturier, Ilaimaharitra, Raveloson, Randrianantenaina; Caddy
Ghana:
Otto Addo’s side came through their win against Chad unscathed, making an unchanged lineup a strong possibility. The Black Stars deployed a 4-3-3 formation in that game, with Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, and Inaki Williams leading the attack.
Ayew, who found the net against Chad, now has five goals in the qualifiers—just one behind Egypt’s Mohamed Salah in the race for the top scorer.
Ghana’s possible starting lineup:
Asare; Schindler, Djiku, Salisu, Mensah; Kudus, Partey, Nuamah; Ayew, Semenyo, Williams
Prediction: Madagascar 1-2 Ghana
While Madagascar’s impressive defensive record gives them a solid foundation, playing at a neutral venue in Morocco could limit their advantage. Ghana, boasting the best attack in the group, will be eager to continue their scoring form. Given both teams’ strong recent performances, a close encounter is expected, but the Black Stars’ firepower could see them edge out a narrow win.
Kickoff Time: 19:00 GMT (7:00 PM)
