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Madagascar continued their remarkable run at the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a tense 4-3 penalty shootout victory over debutants and hosts Kenya on Friday, booking their place in the semi-finals.
At a deafening Kasarani Stadium, the Barea showed once again why they have become Africa’s new masters of resilience. Having finished third at CHAN 2022, Romuald Felix Rakotondrabe’s side underlined their pedigree with another nerveless display under pressure.
Kenya struck first when Alphonce Omija powered home a header just after halftime, but Madagascar refused to panic. They regrouped, kept their shape, and forced their way back into the contest. A Lewis Bandi handball gifted them a penalty in the 66th minute, which captain Fenohasina Razafimaro buried with authority to level matters.
As the match stretched through extra time, Madagascar’s composure and patience told. Goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa, already hailed as one of the tournament’s standout figures, became the hero again in the shootout, saving Mike Kibwage’s spot-kick. With the scores finely balanced, Toky Rakotondraibe stepped up and coolly slotted home the decisive penalty soon before Kenya’s Alphonce Omija put his kick wide, sparking wild celebrations among the Malagasy players and fans.
For Madagascar, the win cements their status as one of the continent’s most consistent performers in recent years. Having finished second in tough group featuring Tanzania , Mauritania, Burkina Faso and CAR, the Barea have now eliminated a spirited Kenyan side to move within touching distance of another medal.
Rakotondrabe’s team has built a reputation on discipline, defensive grit, and an ability to rise in decisive moments. With Ramandimbisoa’s heroics at the heart of their campaign, the island nation now dares to dream of going one better than their 2022 bronze.
In the Semis on Tuesday, Madagascar will face the winner between Algeria and Sudan for a place in the final.
