Kenya vs Madagascar: Harambee Stars bow out of CHAN after penalty nightmare
Harambee Stars' players posing for a photo. Photo/William Ruto via X
Kenya’s historic run at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 came to a heartbreaking end on Friday night at Kasarani Stadium.
The Harambee Stars were eliminated by Madagascar after a tense 1–1 draw over 120 minutes and a cruel 4–3 loss in the ensuing penalty shootout.
Alphonce Omija gave Kenya the lead early in the second half with a towering header in the 48th minute, igniting celebrations among the partisan home crowd.
However, the hope was short-lived. In the 66th minute, Fenohasina Razafimaro calmly converted a penalty after Lewis Bandi handled the ball in the box, restoring parity for Madagascar.
The match remained deadlocked through extra time, prompting a dramatic penalty shootout.
Kenya began promisingly as Siraj Mohammed, Daniel Sakari, and Sylvester Owino scored their penalties.
However, goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa emerged as the tournament’s hero by saving Mike Kibwage’s attempt. Omija, despite being the earlier goal scorer, later missed Kenya’s final spot-kick.
Toky Rakotondraibe stepped up under immense pressure and delivered the winning penalty, sealing Kenya’s elimination and handing Madagascar a place in the semi-finals.
Kenya’s journey to the quarter-finals, including topping the formidable "Group of Death," marked a significant milestone in their debut CHAN appearance.
Coach Benni McCarthy’s side displayed defensive solidity throughout the tournament, conceding just two goals in five matches.
Yet, their inability to convert dominance into goals ultimately proved costly.
For Madagascar, a team that stunned many by winning bronze in CHAN 2022, the victory is a testament to their composure and pedigree under pressure.
Their goalkeeper, Ramandimbisoa, has rightly been hailed as one of the tournament’s standout performers.
