Madagascar continued their exceptional run on the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a tense 4-3 penalty shootout victory over debutants and hosts Kenya on Friday, reserving their place within the semi-finals.

At a deafening Kasarani Stadium, the Barea confirmed as soon as once more why they’ve turn out to be Africa’s new masters of resilience. Having completed third at CHAN 2022, Romuald Felix Rakotondrabe’s aspect underlined their pedigree with one other nerveless show beneath stress.

Kenya struck first when Alphonce Omija powered dwelling a header simply after halftime, however Madagascar refused to panic. They regrouped, stored their form, and compelled their means again into the competition. A Lewis Bandi handball gifted them a penalty within the 66th minute, which captain Fenohasina Razafimaro buried with authority to degree issues.

Because the match stretched via additional time, Madagascar’s composure and persistence advised. Goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa, already hailed as one of many match’s standout figures, grew to become the hero once more within the shootout, saving Mike Kibwage’s spot-kick. With the scores finely balanced, Toky Rakotondraibe stepped up and coolly slotted dwelling the decisive penalty quickly earlier than Kenya’s Alphonce Omija put his kick broad, sparking wild celebrations among the many Malagasy gamers and followers.

For Madagascar, the win cements their standing as one of many continent’s most constant performers lately. Having completed second in robust group that includes Tanzania , Mauritania, Burkina Faso and CAR,  the Barea have now eradicated a spirited Kenyan aspect to maneuver inside touching distance of one other medal.

Rakotondrabe’s group has constructed a fame on self-discipline, defensive grit, and a capability to rise in decisive moments. With Ramandimbisoa’s heroics on the coronary heart of their marketing campaign, the island nation now dares to dream of going one higher than their 2022 bronze.

Within the Semis on Tuesday, Madagascar will face the winner between Algeria and Sudan for a spot within the last.