Rabat – Madagascar secured a dramatic place in the semifinals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) after defeating hosts Kenya 4-3 in a tense penalty shootout.
The quarterfinal clash ended 1-1 after extra time before the Barea held their nerve from the spot to seal the final victory.
The Harambee Stars took the lead early in the second half through Alphonce Omija’s well-taken strike in the 48th minute.
However, Madagascar fought back and equalized in the 69th minute after Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa was brought down in the box, with Fenohasina Gilles Razafimaro calmly converting the penalty.
Both teams pushed hard for a winner in extra time, but neither could find the breakthrough. With the game still tied at 1-1, penalties were needed to decide on a winner.
Madagascar held their nerve in the shootout, scoring 4-3 to claim the victory and continue their CHAN run. The result means Madagascar will now advance to the semifinals.
The defeat was heartbreaking for Kenya, who had enjoyed a spirited campaign in their first-ever CHAN appearance.
They played in front of a passionate home crowd at Safaricom Stadium Kasarani in Nairobi and fought bravely throughout the tournament. However, they fell short in the penalty shootout, leaving players and fans alike devastated.
