Madagascar name squad for 2027 AFCON qualifiers against Nigeria and Tanzania

Madagascar coach Corentin Martins has named his squad for the opening two matches of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Nigeria and Tanzania.

ESTAC goalkeeper Zacharie Boucher and Atert Bissen striker Roman Ferber have been included for the first time as Madagascar prepare for their qualifying campaign.

There is also a return for striker Warren Caddy, who has been recalled to the national team after previously being left out.

The Barea will begin their campaign away from home when they travel to Nigeria on 25 September to face the Super Eagles. They will then return to Madagascar to host Tanzania’s Taifa Stars four days later.

Martins has selected three goalkeepers, 13 defenders, six midfielders and six forwards for the two fixtures.

Boucher is joined in the goalkeeping department by Geordan Dupire and Nina Rakotoasimbola.

The defensive group includes Rado Rabemanantsoa, Mathieu Acapandié, Ehsan Kari, Andy Pelmard, Sandro Tremoulet, Thomas Fontaine, Ryan Ponti, Morgan Jean Pierre, Bono Rabearivelo and Tony Randriamanampisoa.

In midfield, Martins has called up Marco Ilaimaharitra, Rayan Raveloson, Behaja Randriamalala, Andy Rakotondrajoa, Loic Lapoussin and Nicolas Randriamanampisoa.

The forward line features El Hadary Raheriniaina, Hakim Abdallah, Arnaud Randrianantenaina, Roman Ferber, Warren Caddy and Nicolas Fontaine.

Madagascar will be looking to build on their recent performances as they begin their pursuit of a place at the 2027 AFCON.

The Barea missed out on the previous Africa Cup of Nations, but their run to the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) has provided encouragement ahead of the new qualifying campaign.

Their first challenge will come against Nigeria in what will be a demanding opening fixture. Four days later, they will have the opportunity to collect another result when Tanzania visit Madagascar.

Martins has therefore opted to combine established players with two new faces as Madagascar begin their bid to return to the continent’s biggest international tournament.