Ten-man Madagascar made history by reaching their first-ever African Nations Championship (CHAN) final after a dramatic 1-0 win over Sudan in Dar es Salaam. Substitute Toky Rakotondraibe struck in the 116th minute, breaking Sudanese hearts and sending the Barea into Saturday’s final in Nairobi.
How Did Madagascar Beat Sudan?
Madagascar started strongly, controlling possession and creating early chances in front of a sparse Benjamin Mkapa Stadium crowd. Despite their dominance, the first half ended without a goal. Sudan grew into the game in the second half, with Walieldin Khidir missing a golden header opportunity in the 53rd minute.
The momentum appeared to shift when Fenohasina Razafimaro was sent off in the 79th minute for a second bookable offense. With a man advantage, Sudan piled on pressure but failed to convert. Just as the match seemed destined for penalties, Rakotondraibe drilled the winner past Mohamed Abooja in extra time.
“Our strength lies in unity,” said Madagascar coach Romuald Rakotondrabe. “Today, the players kept believing until the very end, and this victory belongs to them and to Madagascar.”
How Did Morocco Overcome Senegal?
Morocco secured their spot in the final after edging past defending champions Senegal 5-3 on penalties in Kampala. The game had ended 1-1 after 120 minutes of intense football.
Senegal struck first when defender Joseph Layousse headed home, but Morocco responded just seven minutes later with a stunning strike from Sabir Bougrine. A straight red card shown to Morocco’s Marouane Louadni for fouling Vieux Cisse was overturned, keeping both sides level.
When extra time failed to separate them, penalties decided the outcome. Senegal faltered when captain Seyni N’Diaye hit the crossbar with the opening kick, while Morocco converted all five of theirs to seal passage into their third CHAN final in seven years.
What Awaits in the CHAN Final?
Saturday’s final in Nairobi will see Madagascar chase a historic first title against a vastly experienced Moroccan side aiming to lift the trophy once again. Morocco coach Tarik Sektioui praised his players’ composure, saying: “It was a tough match against the defending champions, but the players showed composure in the key moments. We have fought hard to reach this stage, and now we want to win the trophy again.”
The stage is now set for an electric final: Madagascar chasing a fairy-tale ending, and Morocco looking to reinforce their dominance in African football.
By Yockshard Enyendi