Madagascar’s Barea etched their names into African football history, securing a spot in their first-ever TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) final. Their dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory over Sudan at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, was a testament to their resilience and tactical prowess. Substitute Toky Rakotondraibe emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 116th minute to propel Madagascar to the title decider against either Morocco or Senegal in Nairobi. This historic achievement marks the first time an island nation has reached a CAF senior men’s final, cementing Madagascar’s status as a rising force in African football.
The semi-final clash between Madagascar and Sudan was a tense, tactical affair, with both teams vying for their maiden CHAN final appearance. Sudan, appearing in their third semi-final after previous disappointments in 2011 and 2018, dominated possession and created several scoring opportunities in the second half. However, they were repeatedly thwarted by the outstanding Malagasy goalkeeper, Michel Ramandimbisoa, who produced a series of crucial saves to keep his team in the contest. Madagascar, having reached the semi-finals in their debut CHAN appearance in 2022, absorbed the Sudanese pressure and patiently waited for their chance to strike.
The match unfolded as a cagey affair from the outset, with both teams creating early chances. Sudan’s Mohamed Tia Asad and Mazin Al Bahli tested Ramandimbisoa early on, while Madagascar’s Fenohasina Razafimaro and Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa threatened with quick counter-attacks. The deadlock persisted throughout the first half and well into the second. Sudan came close to breaking through on several occasions, with Walieldin Khdir missing a golden opportunity with a header and Mubark Abdalla denied by a determined Malagasy defense.
As the second half wore on, it became increasingly apparent that extra time would be needed to separate the two evenly matched sides. Bono Rabearivelo’s late miss for Madagascar further solidified this prospect. The additional 30 minutes of extra time intensified the already tense atmosphere, with both teams pushing for the decisive goal. Ramandimbisoa continued to shine in the Malagasy goal, producing vital saves to deny Sudan’s Mohamed Ahmed Saeed and Musa Hussien.
Madagascar also sought to break the deadlock, primarily through long-range efforts. However, it was a moment of brilliance from Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa that ultimately unlocked the Sudanese defense. His clever pass in the dying moments of extra time found substitute Toky Rakotondraibe, who coolly slotted the ball into the bottom corner past Sudanese goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Malagasy players and fans, who had witnessed their team make history.
Sudan desperately launched a late offensive in search of an equalizer, but their efforts proved futile. The final whistle confirmed Madagascar’s historic victory and their place in the CHAN final. Their impressive run to the final, building on their bronze medal finish in their debut tournament two years prior, showcases their remarkable progress and potential. The Barea, under the guidance of coach Romuald Rakotondrabe, have demonstrated a strong team spirit and a never-say-die attitude, earning them widespread admiration.
Following the match, Coach Rakotondrabe attributed the victory to the players’ unity and unwavering belief. He emphasized that their collective strength allowed them to persevere until the final whistle. For Sudan, coached by Ghanaian tactician Kwesi Appiah, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, marking their third semi-final heartbreak in the CHAN. Despite their exit, Sudan’s spirited performance throughout the tournament earned them praise and recognition for their exciting brand of football. Their campaign will conclude with the third-place playoff against the losing semi-finalist from the other side of the bracket, scheduled to take place in Dar es Salaam.
Madagascar’s remarkable journey, culminating in their historic CHAN final appearance, has captivated the footballing world. Their achievement serves as an inspiration to smaller nations, demonstrating that with determination, unity, and tactical acumen, even the most ambitious goals can be realized. Their success story underscores the growing competitiveness of African football and highlights the potential for unexpected triumphs. As they prepare for the final, Madagascar will carry the hopes and dreams of an entire nation, eager to witness their historic quest for continental glory reach its climax.
