Madagascar has secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2024 with a dramatic 2-1 win over Burkina Faso on Saturday evening at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.
The Malagasy team got off to a flying start, with Fenohasina Razafimaro scoring a stunning long-range goal in the 7th minute. However, Burkina Faso equalized in the 25th minute, with Souleymane Sangaré heading in an inch-perfect cross from Hanaby Sagné.
The turning point came in the 58th minute when Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa converted a penalty kick, following a rash challenge by Sagné in the box.
A Hard-Fought Victory
Madagascar, on four points prior to their last group game, needed nothing other than a win to seal a quarter-finals spot with Mauritania on standby having reached 6 points mark.
According to Coach Romuald Rakotondrabe, the win wasn’t straightforward. “We won our game but it wasn’t straightforward at all. Fortunately, we scored two goals, but the game was very difficult. Our players played with character, and there was a will to continue this competition.” He also praised the teams in group B, saying, “There is no team in our group that didn’t deserve to qualify. I doff my hat to all the teams in our group for the high level of football they exhibited.”
Player’s Perspective: Michel Ramandimbisoa Lalain’arinjaka, Madagascar’s Stalwart Goalkeeper
Player of the match for a third time, Michel Ramandimbisoa Lalain’arinjaka expressed his happiness with his team’s journey. “I’m happy with our journey, and I think it’s not by chance to claim this award for a third time. There was lots of work that went into this. I’d like to thank my fans who have supported me through this journey,” An elated Michel Ramandimbisoa said.
Michel, affectionately known as “Lalaina”, 39, denied claiming all the glory, despite his impressive performances playing a crucial role in Madagascar’s tournament success.
“Our performance is down to work put together by the coach and my teammates.” He also acknowledged Burkina Faso’s strength, saying, “Burkina Faso is a strong team. They gave us a tough time on the field of play.”
With his exceptional goalkeeping and experience, Michel has become a key player for Madagascar’s team, with two clean sheets: against the Central African Republic and Mauritania en route to the quarter-finals.
Issa Balbone’s exits with head held high
Post match, Burkina Faso’s Issa Balbone praised Madagascar’s determination, saying, “We are from a difficult game today. Despite playing good football, we stumbled on a Madagascar team that wanted to go through by all means. I wish them good luck.” He also commended the high level of football played in the group, as he added, “All the games played at a high level.”
Heading into Burkina Faso’s fourth and final game, Balbone went deep into his team for rotation but still got a fight off his reserves. According to the 51-year-old, it was necessary to rotate the team, so as to keep the entire team squad happy and motivated. “We were obliged to use our squad depth. If players left the competition without playing, it could have affected them negatively even at their different clubs.”
“I remain the coach of Burkina Faso. It is left for the federation to decide. I am proud of the lads and the fight they put up. I think the future is bright,” Balbone ended when asked about what’s next for his team.
With the win, Madagascar is now set to face the winner of Group A, which could be a tough matchup against either of: Morocco, DR Congo, or Kenya. The Barea performance in Zanzibar suggests that they won’t be an easy opponent to beat in the knockout stages.
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