Madagascar’s dream run to the semi-finals at CHAN 2024

Madagascar are rewriting their footballing story at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) Pamoja 2024, reaching the semi-finals for the second successive edition and proving their bronze medal finish in 2022 was no fluke.

The Barea edged Kenya in a dramatic penalty shootout in Nairobi to book their place in the last four, setting up a mouth-watering clash with Sudan in Dar es Salaam.

Madagascar first announced themselves to the continent in Algeria two years ago when they stunned the field to finish third on debut. Far from being a one-off, their current run has underlined a growing football project that blends youthful ambition with experienced leadership.

Coach Ronald Rakotondrabe has guided a new generation that believes in more than just participation. “This is not about being guests anymore; it’s about competing with the best,” he said after their quarter-final win.

Placed in a tricky pool alongside Tanzania, Burkina Faso, Mauritania and the Central African Republic, Madagascar showed grit to emerge as runners-up. A 2–1 victory over Burkina Faso in Zanzibar proved decisive, sealing qualification behind Mauritania on goal difference. Their performances — marked by tactical discipline at the back and boldness going forward — confirmed their growing maturity.

Kenya, spurred on by a fervent home crowd, struck first through Alphonse Omega, raising the roof in Nairobi. But the Barea refused to wilt. Vinhasina Razafimaro calmly converted from the spot to restore parity before the game dragged into penalties.

Veteran goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa — already a three-time Man of the Match — became the hero once again, pulling off a crucial save. Toki Rakotondrabe then slotted home the winning kick to send Madagascar into ecstasy. “These were historic moments that prove our ability to handle pressure,” Ramandimbisoa reflected.

While the collective has shone, individual brilliance has made the difference. Ramandimbisoa’s shot-stopping has been the backbone of their resilience. Razafimaro’s intelligence in attack has added cutting edge, while Toki’s composure in midfield — capped by his decisive penalty — has provided balance.

“These players are the soul of our progress,” coach Rakotondrabe admitted. “They carry the responsibility with courage.”

The semi-final against Sudan promises to be another test of nerve. Scheduled for Tuesday, 26 August, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, the clash pits two of CHAN 2024’s surprise packages against each other, with a place in the final at stake.

Madagascar’s fans believe their team is on the verge of another fairytale. “We always dreamed of making history again. Now it’s within our reach,” said captain Michel Toldo.

From North Africa in 2022 to East Africa in 2024, Madagascar’s CHAN journey has been a lesson in ambition and belief. Whether their story ends in the final or not, the Barea have proved they are no longer outsiders — but a force that African football must take seriously.