Madagascar unveil squad for Guinea-Bissau double-header in AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Madagascar have announced their squad for the November international break as they prepare for a crucial double-header against Guinea-Bissau in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The Barea will be desperate to secure their first victory in the qualifying campaign after a disappointing start to their Group-stage assignments in September.

Madagascar opened their campaign with a narrow 2-1 defeat to Nigeria before settling for a 1-1 draw against Tanzania, leaving them with just one point from their opening two matches.

The island nation will now turn their attention to the two meetings with Guinea-Bissau, knowing that maximum points could provide a significant boost to their qualification hopes.

Head coach Romuald Rakotondrabe has named a squad featuring a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents as Madagascar seek to improve their fortunes in the qualifiers.

Midfielder Marco Ilaimaharitra and Rayan Raveloson headline the selection, while the attacking department includes Warren Caddy, Hakim Abdallah, Roman Ferber and Arnaud Randrianantenaina.

The defensive unit also features experienced campaigners Thomas Fontaine and Mathieu Acapandié as the Barea look to improve their defensive organisation ahead of the decisive encounters.

Madagascar will be hoping to make the most of their upcoming fixtures against Guinea-Bissau to revive their qualification campaign and strengthen their chances of securing a place at the 2027 AFCON finals.

Madagascar squad:

Goalkeepers: Geordan Dupire, Sonny Laiton, Zakanirina Rakotoasimbola.

Defenders: Sandro Tremoulet, Ehsan Kari, Rajo Nirina Razafindrabe, Thomas Fontaine, Mathieu Acapandié, Radoniaina Rabemanantsoa, Morgan Jean Pierre, Ryan Ponti.

Midfielders: Marco Ilaimaharitra, Behaja Randriamalala, Clément Couturier, Nicolas Randriamanampisoa, Rayan Raveloson, Johan N’Zi.

Forwards: Nicolas Fontaine, Warren Caddy, Hakim Abdallah, El Hadary Raherinina, Roman Ferber, Arnaud Randrianantenaina, Fenohasina Razafimaro.