BY Kimberly Kalusi
Madagascar wrote a new chapter in their football history after edging Sudan 2-1 in extra time to qualify for their maiden African Nations Championship (CHAN) final. The Barea will now face Morocco on Saturday at Nairobi’s Moi Sports Centre Kasarani in what promises to be a clash of pedigree against newcomers.
Played in Dar es Salaam, the semi-final was a tense and tactical affair, with both sides trading spells of dominance. Sudan looked threatening from the wings, while Madagascar relied on quick counter-attacks to unsettle their opponents.
The breakthrough came in the 39th minute when Sudan’s Ahmed Bashir capitalised on a defensive mix-up to slot past goalkeeper Melvin Rakotoharisoa.
Madagascar, however, refused to be intimidated. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when captain Arnaud Randrianantenaina equalised with a powerful header that sent the match into extra time.
With the contest finely balanced, Madagascar struck the decisive blow in the 108th minute. Substitute Rajoelina Ravelomanantsoa pounced on a loose ball in the box to fire past Sudan’s custodian Ahmed Adam, sparking wild celebrations from the Malagasy bench.
Sudan pushed for a response, but Madagascar’s defence held firm, with goalkeeper Rakotoharisoa pulling off two crucial saves in the dying minutes.
This victory marks Madagascar’s first-ever appearance in a CHAN final — a remarkable feat for a team that has steadily grown in stature in African football.
Coach Rivo Andrianasolo praised his players’ determination: “We are making history for our country. The players showed heart, discipline, and belief. Now we face Morocco, a giant of the tournament, but we will fight with everything we have.”
Sudan’s coach, Ahmed El Tayeb, admitted disappointment but lauded his team’s effort:“It’s painful to lose like this, but the boys gave their all. We’ll aim to finish on a high in the third-place playoff.”
The final will pit Morocco’s experience and proven track record against Madagascar’s underdog spirit and hunger. Sudan, meanwhile, will battle Senegal in Dar es Salaam for bronze.
For Madagascar, the dream continues — 90 minutes away from lifting their first continental silverware.
