A Tight Battle in Dar es Salaam

Madagascar wrote a new chapter in their football history by reaching the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN). In a tense semifinal at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium, the Malagasy side overcame Sudan 1-0 with a dramatic strike from substitute Toky Rakotondraibe in the 116th minute.

Both teams entered the pitch chasing their first CHAN final appearance. While Madagascar had already impressed as semifinalists in 2022, Sudan was making its third attempt after falling short in 2011 and 2018. The first half was balanced, with Mohamed Tia Asad and Mazin Al Bahli testing Malagasy goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa, while Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa and Fenohasina Razafimaro generated danger for the island nation.

Despite several chances, the opening goal didn’t arrive, and coaches Kwesi Appiah (Sudan) and Romuald Rakotondrabe (Madagascar) urged their squads to stay patient.

Extra-Time Drama

The second half and extra time delivered all the intensity. Sudan came close with efforts from Walieldin Khdir, Mohamed Ahmed Saeed, and Musa Hussien, but the inspired Ramandimbisoa denied them. On the other end, Randriamanampisoa and Rafanomezantsoa forced saves from Sudanese keeper Mohamed Abooja.

Finally, the breakthrough came in the 116th minute when Rafanomezantsoa slipped a clever pass to Rakotondraibe, who fired low past Abooja to seal the victory. The Malagasy bench and fans erupted in celebrations as Sudan’s Falcons of Jediane pushed desperately for an equalizer but fell short.

A Historic Moment for Madagascar

With this win, Madagascar become the first island nation to reach a CAF senior tournament final. Coach Rakotondrabe highlighted the team’s unity: “Our strength lies in believing together until the very last minute. This victory belongs to the players and to Madagascar.”

For Sudan, it was another painful semifinal exit, but their spirited campaign — which included a stunning 4-0 victory over Nigeria and an upset against Algeria on penalties — earned them respect across Africa.

Madagascar will now face either defending champions Senegal or two-time winners Morocco in Saturday’s final in Nairobi, while Sudan will compete in the third-place playoff on Friday in Dar es Salaam.