Madagascar revive hopes
DAR ES SALAAM: MADAGASCAR revived their hopes for a spot in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinals with a 2-0 victory against the Central African Republic at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam yesterday.
The victory was a vibrant celebration for Madagascar, while it confirmed the elimination of the Central African Republic from the tournament despite having one final Group B match against Tanzania on Saturday.
Toky Rakotondraibe and Namena Razafimahatana led the Madagascar team to earn maximum points, temporarily elevating them to second place with four points behind group leaders Tanzania, who have nine points.
Tanzania has secured a place in the quarter-finals. Now, the focus shifts to the other three teams vying for the final spot in their group: Madagascar, Mauritania and Burkina Faso.
With Mauritania and Burkina Faso faced off in a closely contested match late yesterday.
The match between Central African Republic and Madagascar was crucial for both teams. The first half favoured the Central African Republic, who used their physical presence to create opportunities.
In the 28th minute, Central African Republic forward Ange Zoumara nearly broke the deadlock with a header from Dimitri Kogbeto’s cross, but it narrowly missed.
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Central African Republic continued to press for a goal. Just before halftime, Ghislain Mounguide set up Juvénal Pouguy, but his attempt went wide, leaving the score goalless. The second half saw Madagascar take control.
In the 61st minute, Ryan Rajaonarivelo assisted Nomena Razafimahatana, whose powerful shot was magnificently blocked by Central African Republic captain Cherubin BasseZokana.
The Central Africans responded with a strike from Zoumara Ange in the 74th minute, but Madagascar goalkeeper Ramandimbisoa Michael made a brilliant save.
As time ran out, Madagascar intensified their pursuit. In the 84th minute, Mamisoa Rakotoson fired a shot that was partially blocked, but the rebound fell to Toky Rakotondraibe, who converted the chance into a goal, giving Madagascar the lead.
In the final minute, Madagascar sealed their victory with a second goal. Namena Razafimahatana received a pass from Harrison Randriamanantena before he fired a bullet past Central African Goalkeeper Saturnin Ngarsouma.
