2026 FIFA WCQ: FIFA changes venue for Black Stars and CAR clash
1st October 2025
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 I clash, originally scheduled for El Jadida, will now take place at the Stade d'Honneur de Meknes in Morocco on Tuesday, October 8, 2025, with kickoff set for 16:00 GMT.
CAR continue to host their home fixtures in Morocco due to the absence of an approved stadium in their country. The neutral setting offers Ghana a strategic advantage, with limited home support expected for the opposition.
The Black Stars, currently in a strong qualifying position, need just four points from their final two matches — against CAR and Comoros — to secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
A win in Meknes, coupled with dropped points by Ghana’s closest rivals, could seal qualification with a game to spare, marking their fifth appearance on the global stage.
Match Officials
- Referee: Patrice Milazare (Mauritius)
- Assistants: Louis Ralph Fabien Cauvelet (Mauritius), Shaji Padayachy (Seychelles)
- Fourth Official: Noris Aaron Godfrey Arissol (Seychelles)
- Referee Assessor: Fatou Gaye (Senegal)
- Match Commissioner: Jamal Kaouachi (Morocco)
- Security Officer: Efughu Odochi Joan (Nigeria)