Madagascar booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after defeating Kenya 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a tense 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time.
The quarter-final clash proved to be a fiercely contested affair, with both sides battling for control but struggling to convert opportunities into decisive goals.
Kenya’s Harambee Stars showed greater initiative in spells, pressing high and attempting to dictate the tempo, yet their attacking efforts often faltered in the final third. Madagascar’s Barea, meanwhile, carved out moments of promise but likewise found clear chances difficult to convert.
Tight first half
The opening 45 minutes saw a balanced encounter, with Kenya displaying more possession-based play while Madagascar attempted to threaten on the counter.
Despite a few half-chances at either end, neither team managed to break the deadlock before the interval, leaving the scoreline goalless and the match delicately poised.
Kenya strike first
The breakthrough finally arrived just three minutes after the restart. From a perfectly delivered free kick, Alphonse Omija rose highest in the penalty area and produced a towering header reminiscent of a classic centre-forward’s finish. His effort powered past the goalkeeper to give Kenya a 1-0 lead in the 48th minute.
The goal injected confidence into the Harambee Stars, who sought to consolidate their advantage. However, Madagascar gradually regained composure, increasing their attacking urgency as the second half progressed.
Madagascar hit back
Persistent pressure from the Barea eventually paid off. In the 69th minute, Madagascar were awarded a penalty after sustained pressure inside the Kenyan box. Rzafimaro stepped up confidently and dispatched his spot-kick to level the score at 1-1, sending the contest back into balance with just over 20 minutes left to play.
Despite both teams’ efforts to force a winner, the deadlock remained unbroken through the remainder of normal time. The additional 30 minutes of extra time produced further drama but no goals, ensuring the outcome would be settled by penalties.
Decisive shootout
In the nerve-racking shootout that followed, Madagascar held their composure from the spot, successfully converting four of their attempts. Kenya faltered at key moments, missing twice, which ultimately handed the Barea a 4-3 victory and progression to the final four of the tournament.
The result extends Madagascar’s impressive run in the competition, showcasing their resilience and ability to recover from difficult moments. For Kenya, the defeat was a painful exit after taking the lead and holding firm for large stretches of the contest, only to fall short in the decisive shootout.
Looking ahead
With this victory, Madagascar advance to the semi-finals and continue their quest for a maiden CHAN title. Their performance against Kenya, marked by persistence and composure under pressure, underlines the growing strength of the team on the continental stage.
For Kenya, the loss marks the end of their campaign, despite showing glimpses of promise and delivering a competitive display against a determined opponent.
The Barea now await their semi-final challenge, carrying with them the momentum of a dramatic triumph decided from 12 yards.
