Central African Republic have made Rigobert Song their head coach, sparking optimism ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Former Cameroonian national football team captain Rigobert Song has been officially named the head coach of the Central African Republic’s national football team.
The appointment was announced in Bangui on the evening of January 13, 2025, following his arrival in the country.
The nation’s Minister of Youth and Sports extended a warm welcome to the football legend, marking the beginning of what many hope will be a transformative era for the team.
19:56 - 12.01.2025
Mapinduzi Cup: Millions Harambee Stars will miss after failing to secure final slot
Harambee Stars’ failure to make it to the Mapinduzi Cup final will not only see them lose out on a chance to win the trophy but there is also a big cash reward that they missed out on.
Song, a celebrated figure in African and international football, brings an impressive coaching résumé to the Fauves (Wild Beasts).
The Central African Republic currently faces significant hurdles on the road to qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Sitting second-to-last in their group with just four points from four matches, the team has struggled with consistency and cohesion.
Adding to the urgency, they are in the midst of a five-game losing streak that has dampened morale.
12:00 - 12.01.2025
Gor Mahia: When the defending champions will resume league action and January rescheduled fixtures
The defending champions have not tasted league action since December 22, 2024.
However, optimism is growing as Song steps in, with hopes that his vast experience and motivational abilities will instill a new sense of belief and discipline in the squad.
Song’s immediate focus will be on the upcoming World Cup qualifiers where the Fauves will face Madagascar and Mali in back-to-back crucial encounters.
These matches are seen as must-win opportunities for the team to keep their qualification hopes alive.
His task will involve not only addressing tactical shortcomings but also building a strong and resilient team culture capable of competing on the international stage.
The specifics of Song’s contract, including its duration and financial terms, remain undisclosed.
09:30 - 12.01.2025
Shabana bank record gate collections in their sweetest brew over Tusker
Tore Bobe stunned Tusker with a dramatic 2-1 victory at Gusii Stadium, breaking their ticket sales record.
However, his commitment to the role has already been evident.
Before the formal announcement of his appointment, Song met with Central African Republic President Faustin Archange Touadér.
Song’s career as a player is as illustrious as his achievements as a coach.
He earned an astonishing 137 caps for Cameroon over a 17-year international career, making him one of the most capped African players of all time.
He represented his nation in four FIFA World Cups and eight Africa Cup of Nations finals, solidifying his place as a footballing icon.
05:30 - 14.01.2025
'We will explore the option'- CS Salim Mvurya on why fans may not pay entrance fee for CHAN
CS Mvurya has hinted at possible free entry for CHAN fans, while ensuring venues will be ready on time.
At the club level, he enjoyed stints with prominent European teams, including Liverpool and West Ham United in England, as well as clubs in France, Germany, Italy, and Turkey.