Rigobert Song discusses the tensions surrounding his appointment in the Central African Republic

Africa 11 March 2025 at 06:32

Lydiane N'Po

News Editor

The appointment of Rigobert Song as the head coach of the Central African Republic's national football team has sparked mixed reactions between the Ministry of Sports and the Central African Football Federation (FCF).

On March 3, 2025, the Ministry of Sports of the Central African Republic officially announced the appointment of Rigobert Song as the national coach, with a two-year contract and a monthly salary of 4,500,000 FCFA. This decision followed a meeting between the former captain of the Indomitable Lions and Central African President Faustin-Archange Touadéra.

However, the FCF, led by Sélystène Yanindji, expressed its dissatisfaction with this appointment, claiming it was not consulted in the process. Consequently, it decided to retain Éloge Enza-Yamissi as the interim coach, particularly for the upcoming matches against Madagascar and Mali, scheduled for March 19 and 24 as part of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

On the evening of Monday, March 10, the former coach of Cameroon's Indomitable Lions spoke on Canal+ Sport Afrique to clarify the situation and calm tensions.

“I think things moved very quickly in the sense that the ministry should have first consulted the federation, which is the technical body. I asked for an agreement to be reached before signing and working under the best conditions,” explained Rigobert Song.