Madagascar’s Barea Stadium under renovation ahead of AFCON 2025 qualifier against Gambia
Madagascar’s national football team, the Barea, has received a boost ahead of their third match in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. Renovation work is underway at the Barea Stadium, raising hopes that the Malagasy side will finally be able to host Gambia on home soil.
The ongoing renovations come after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) made several recommendations to ensure the stadium meets international standards.
This development has been warmly received by fans, who are eager to see their national team play at home again.
The renovation work is being overseen by the State Secretariat for New Cities and Housing (SENVH).
It includes upgrades to various stadium facilities, such as the changing rooms and the stairs leading down to the pitch.
One of the most significant changes will be the replacement of the current synthetic turf with natural grass, meeting CAF’s requirements for international matches.
Additionally, the athletics track that surrounds the field is slated for removal to make way for the new playing surface.
The return to home turf could be crucial for the Barea as they look to turn their fortunes around in the qualifiers.
They currently sit winless in Group A, with just one point from two matches.
Hosting Gambia at the newly renovated stadium could provide a much-needed morale boost and potentially aid their quest for a first victory in the qualification campaign.
If all goes according to plan, Madagascar’s national team will play their next AFCON 2025 qualifier against Gambia at the refurbished Barea Stadium.
The home advantage, combined with the support of passionate Malagasy fans, could be a key factor in changing the team’s trajectory in the tournament.
With the renovations already in progress, expectations are high.
The upgrades aim not only to enhance the stadium’s facilities but also to provide a better experience for both players and supporters.
The natural grass pitch is particularly seen as a step forward, aligning the venue with international standards and offering optimal playing conditions for the athletes.
As the Barea prepare for their crucial match against Gambia, the Malagasy football community remains hopeful that the revamped stadium will mark the beginning of a successful chapter in their AFCON 2025 journey.
