Madagascar’s dream run at the CHAN 2024 is still alive. The Malagasy side secured a crucial 2-1 win over Burkina Faso at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, a result that sealed their place in the quarter-finals of the continental tournament.

The final outcome of Group B was completed by a goalless draw between Tanzania and the Central African Republic in Dar es Salaam, leaving Tanzania top of the group while Madagascar advanced as runners-up.

High-intensity clash in Zanzibar

Knowing that only a win would do, Madagascar came out firing from the first whistle. Their reward arrived early, as Fenohasina Razafimaro stunned everyone with a long-range strike in the 7th minute.

But pride-driven Burkina Faso, already eliminated, hit back in the 25th minute when Souleymane Sangaré rose to head in a cross from Hanaby Sagne, restoring parity and raising the tension in the match.

The decisive moment came after the break, when Sagne conceded a penalty. Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa made no mistake from the spot, drilling a powerful effort into the corner in the 58th minute to seal a 2-1 lead for Madagascar.

Burkina bow out fighting, Madagascar celebrate

From then on, Issa Balbone’s men pressed forward relentlessly in search of an equalizer. Chances fell to Papus Ouattara and Yves Koutiama, but goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa produced key saves. Even a late header from Sagne narrowly missed the target, keeping Burkinabe hopes alive until the very end.

Led by defender Tony Randriamanampisoa, the Malagasy backline stood firm to secure a victory that underlined their resilience after a tough start to the tournament, which included a red card and a loss to the hosts.

With the result, Burkina Faso exit the competition with just one win from four matches, though they showed flashes of quality.

Madagascar, meanwhile, march on with seven points and growing belief. Their fighting spirit and ability to recover from setbacks make them a dangerous opponent heading into the knockout rounds.