Latest news with #RomualdRakotondrabe
CAF
a day ago
- Sport
- CAF
Tanzania's Roar: Unbeaten run raises trophy talk, Madagascar hold on
Under the floodlights of the stadium, the air was electric. The crowd sang, flags waved, and on the pitch, Tanzania's 'Taifa Stars' delivered yet another statement victory at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024. For head coach Hamad Suleiman, it was a night of pride. For Madagascar's Romuald Rakotondrabe, it was a night of frustration — yet not one without hope. Tanzania M arch into the Quarter-finals in Style Tanzania secured their third straight win in the group stage with a 2-1 triumph over Madagascar, sealing their ticket to the quarter-finals. Forward Francis Mzize was the star of the evening, netting both goals that sent the home fans into raptures and ensured the Taifa Stars remain one of the competition's form sides. The win wasn't just about points — it was about belief. Three matches, three victories. It's a run few teams achieve at this stage of the CHAN. 'Not Easy to Win Three Matches in a Tournament' In his post-match press conference, Hamad Suleiman made sure the spotlight shone on his players. 'I say to the players, well done. It is not easy to win three matches in the tournament. It was a tough match, and our players did a good job. We tried to press Madagascar from the start. There were some difficult moments during the game overall.' He added: 'We believe we delivered what we needed to deliver in the match. The players really gave their all throughout, and the result was fair.' Teamwork, Training, and a Touch of Luck Suleiman was quick to highlight the collective effort behind the win. 'Our mission was difficult, but we trained well and we were also lucky in the match. We recovered many balls, we played well, we found the solution in the match, and we won.' He continued: 'In general, the match was good and beautiful between the two teams. The team play we presented was beautiful, and football requires such play. I confirm that luck was with us in this match.' A Message to the Home Crowd With the quarter-finals now confirmed, Suleiman turned his thoughts to the Tanzanian supporters. 'The fact we have qualified to the next round — I must say to Tanzanians to continue supporting us and motivating the players, and to keep providing that atmosphere. We have reached this stage together in the tournament.' He added: 'We played well, and our opponent was strong. Madagascar's players defended well and their back line was solid. We trained a lot and our tactical plan was on point. I congratulate the players who gave what they had — they did well, and that's what I can say about them.' For Madagascar, a Setback but Not the End On the other side, Madagascar's head coach Romuald Rakotondrabe could only lament the result, though he refused to let the setback crush their spirit. 'It was a tough defeat against Tanzania, and this is football.' The Turning Point: A Surprise Goal Rakotondrabe pinpointed the early breakthrough as the key moment that swung the tie in Tanzania's favour. 'We played a strong match, but not like our opponent Tanzania who scored the first goal, and it was surprising. Football is always difficult.' Hope Still Alive Despite remaining on a single point after two matches, the Madagascar coach insists the door to the quarter-finals is still ajar. 'We lost the first two matches. This result is, in fact, painful, but there are still two matches ahead of us. We will work on motivating our players for the coming games.' The night ended with the host nation celebrating their flawless group-stage run, while Madagascar faced the uphill task of rekindling their campaign. The big questions now loom: can Tanzania carry this momentum to the final — and possibly the trophy? And will Madagascar, third-place finishers in the last edition, find a way to escape the group stage once again?
CAF
a day ago
- Sport
- CAF
Coaches praise the excellent organization by CAF and the high competitive level of CHAN2024 TotalEnergies
The TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, held under the slogan 'Pamoja' , continues to captivate observers and stakeholders of African football. From the very first matchdays of the group stage, the tournament has stood out not only for the intensity of the games but also for the rigor and quality of its organization, overseen by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, the tournament is a powerful illustration of the rise of domestic football across the continent. The smooth organization, top-tier infrastructure, and competitiveness of the participating teams demonstrate CAF's commitment to making CHAN a true showcase for African football. Through statements made by several coaches, it is clear that CHAN is more than just a competition: it serves as a concrete driver for the sustainable development of national and regional football in Africa. Three renowned coaches—those of Mauritania, Tanzania, and Madagascar—spoke enthusiastically about the technical level displayed so far by the competing teams and expressed their gratitude for the tremendous efforts made by CAF to ensure the success of this edition, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The coaches also stressed the importance of CHAN TotalEnergies as a key platform for the growth of African football, praising both the organizational excellence and the fierce competition. Lopez Garai, Hemed Suleiman, and Romuald Rakotondrabe Praise CAF's Efforts Mauritania coach Arturo López Garai expressed his admiration for CAF's organization so far, while highlighting the quality of the matches and the level shown by the teams. 'I have followed all the matches since the start of the competition and I can say the level is high. I especially watched Algeria's match—they have a very good team that we have already faced—as well as Morocco's game. The match between Kenya and Angola was also superb. The overall level is truly satisfying,' he said. He also emphasized the quality of the facilities and expressed his wish to see more fans in the stands: 'The facilities are excellent. I hope the supporters will continue to come in large numbers, because football is for the players but also for the fans.' For his part, Tanzania coach Hemed Suleiman also commended CAF for its work in ensuring the success of this CHAN edition and for its broader role in the development of football in Africa. 'The CHAN TotalEnergies is going perfectly well so far. The level of the teams is remarkable and the tournament is very well organized,' he affirmed. He extended his thanks to CAF for its ongoing efforts, while noting the clear progress made by African teams: 'Thank you to CAF for all it is doing. Across the different matches, we can clearly see how teams are improving from one game to the next.' Madagascar coach Romuald Rakotondrabe also voiced his satisfaction with the technical level shown by the teams, while congratulating CAF for its organizational work. Having taken part in two consecutive CHAN editions—2022 in Algeria and the current 2024 edition in East Africa—he emphasized the consistency and quality of the arrangements: 'CAF's organization is very good. I have participated in two CHAN editions, and each time, the level of organization is remarkable. Congratulations to CAF for this work.' He concluded by praising the performance of the national teams competing in the continental tournament: 'The overall level of the national teams is very good.' Molefi Ntseki, head coach of South Africa's senior national team, made a point of praising the organisation of the event, highlighting that 'the accommodation and transport have been excellent, and the security provided to us has made us feel very safe; the host country is clearly taking good care of everyone.' Beyond comfort and logistics, Ntseki also emphasised the quality of the facilities: 'The training facilities are of a high standard, which has been appreciated by players and staff alike.' The competition also serves as an important test of the Confederation of African Football's (CAF) organisational capacity, which has been commended by participants. 'The organising committee deserves praise for strictly adhering to the rules and regulations of the competition, including protocols regarding team arrivals, stadium procedures, press conferences, and scheduling, all of which have been meticulously managed,' the coach noted. In a tournament that celebrates the development of African football, Ntseki concluded: 'As Africans, we are proud of the standards being set at this tournament, and we are grateful for all the effort put into its preparation and execution. Thank you and keep up the good work.' The enthusiastic testimonies of these three renowned coaches confirm the positive momentum that African football is experiencing. The 2024 CHAN brilliantly reflects the progress achieved in technical, logistical, and structural terms. Through its active involvement, CAF plays a decisive role in building a promising future for continental football, placing the local player at the heart of its strategic vision.
CAF
04-08-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Madagascar and Mauritania share spoils in goalless CHAN 2024 opener
Madagascar and Mauritania played out a tense 0-0 draw on Sunday evening at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, as both sides opened their Group B campaign at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024. The result means both teams remain level in a competitive five-team group, where an early win would have provided vital momentum. Despite plenty of endeavour and moments of promise from both teams, neither could find the decisive touch in a contest that saw more fouls than fluid football. The CHAN tournament, reserved exclusively for players competing in their respective domestic leagues, has served as a launching pad for several stars. Both sides came into this match with aspirations of progression, especially Madagascar who reached the semi-finals in 2022 and Mauritania, who are making their fourth appearance. Madagascar, led by coach Romuald Rakotondrabe and captained by experienced midfielder Andriamirado 'Dax' Andrianarimanana, started brightly. Dax tested the Mauritanian defence early with a long-range effort that went just wide, but his evening was cut short in the 39th minute after picking up a second yellow card—leaving the Barea to play over 50 minutes with 10 men. Even so, the Malagasy side, semi-finalists in 2022 and bronze medal winners, remained tactically disciplined. Goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa was a standout figure, making several crucial saves including a sharp stop to deny Mohamed Hawbott in the opening minutes and another late effort from Moulaye Al Khalil. Mauritania, who have never won an opening CHAN match in their history, dominated possession after the red card and looked the more likely side to find a breakthrough. Moctar El Hacen came closest in stoppage time, but his curled effort from outside the box drifted just wide of the top corner. Head coach Aritz López Garai had hoped for a statement performance from his charges, but while the Mourabitounes showed improved organisation and pressed high in the second half, their final delivery let them down. Mauritania's long-standing struggle in front of goal at CHAN continued—they've now failed to score in all four of their tournament openers. Madagascar, who had won all but one of their matches at the 2022 edition, will be slightly disappointed with the draw, especially after a promising first half. But given the circumstances of going a man down, they will take heart from the resilience shown by the team, particularly in the back line. With Tanzania, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic still to play in the group, both sides will know there is little margin for error. The result leaves Group B delicately poised. Burkina Faso return to action against CAR, while Mauritania face Tanzania in what could prove pivotal in determining quarter-final hopefuls.
CAF
30-07-2025
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2024: Madagascar team profile
Madagascar, affectionately known as the Barea, returns to the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) with high expectations following their remarkable debut in 2022. Guided by the tactical expertise of Romuald Rakotondrabe, the Barea aim to build on their bronze medal achievement and take another step towards continental glory. With a blend of youthful talent and a fast, technical playing style, the Malagasy are ready to leave their mark once again on Africa's premier domestic-league player tournament. Factfile Nickname : The Barea : The Barea Participations : 2 (2022, 2024) : 2 (2022, 2024) Best Performance: Third place (2022) How They Qualified Madagascar secured their spot at CHAN 2024 with a confident display against Eswatini. A 2-0 home victory in the first leg set the tone, and despite a narrow 1-0 loss in the return leg, the Barea advanced on aggregate to book their place in East Africa. Players to Watch John Christiano Razafimanana (Forward, Ajesaia Fenohasina):The 23-year-old forward was instrumental in Madagascar's qualification campaign, scoring in the crucial first-leg victory over Eswatini. Known for his blistering speed, positional awareness, and clinical finishing, Razafimanana is a constant threat to opposing defenses. His tireless pressing and ability to capitalize on defensive lapses make him a key player in the Barea's attacking arsenal. Nina Razakanirina (Midfielder, Fosa Juniors): A midfield dynamo, Razakanirina is celebrated for his impeccable passing and ability to control the tempo of the game. His creativity and vision enable him to link defense and attack seamlessly, while his work rate ensures stability in the center of the pitch. Razakanirina will be pivotal in orchestrating Madagascar's dynamic play at CHAN 2024. Coach Romuald Rakotondrabe: Nicknamed "Rôro," Rakotondrabe is a master tactician whose philosophy emphasizes fluid, attacking football. He has transformed Madagascar into a cohesive unit capable of competing against Africa's best. His focus on technical precision, quick transitions, and offensive versatility has made the Barea a formidable force. Known for his adaptability, Rakotondrabe often employs a high-intensity pressing game that disrupts opponents' build-up play while maximizing his team's attacking opportunities. His tactical discipline and ability to nurture young talent have positioned him as one of the continent's emerging coaching minds. Under his guidance, Madagascar aims to surpass their third-place finish from 2022 and challenge for the ultimate prize.
CAF
18-07-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Madagascar
Madagascar, affectionately known as the Barea, returns to the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) with high expectations following their remarkable debut in 2022. Guided by the tactical expertise of Romuald Rakotondrabe, the Barea aim to build on their bronze medal achievement and take another step towards continental glory. With a blend of youthful talent and a fast, technical playing style, the Malagasy are ready to leave their mark once again on Africa's premier domestic-league player tournament. Factfile Nickname : The Barea : The Barea Participations : 2 (2022, 2024) : 2 (2022, 2024) Best Performance: Third place (2022) How They Qualified Madagascar secured their spot at CHAN 2024 with a confident display against Eswatini. A 2-0 home victory in the first leg set the tone, and despite a narrow 1-0 loss in the return leg, the Barea advanced on aggregate to book their place in East Africa. Players to Watch John Christiano Razafimanana (Forward, Ajesaia Fenohasina):The 23-year-old forward was instrumental in Madagascar's qualification campaign, scoring in the crucial first-leg victory over Eswatini. Known for his blistering speed, positional awareness, and clinical finishing, Razafimanana is a constant threat to opposing defenses. His tireless pressing and ability to capitalize on defensive lapses make him a key player in the Barea's attacking arsenal. Nina Razakanirina (Midfielder, Fosa Juniors): A midfield dynamo, Razakanirina is celebrated for his impeccable passing and ability to control the tempo of the game. His creativity and vision enable him to link defense and attack seamlessly, while his work rate ensures stability in the center of the pitch. Razakanirina will be pivotal in orchestrating Madagascar's dynamic play at CHAN 2024. Coach Romuald Rakotondrabe: Nicknamed "Rôro," Rakotondrabe is a master tactician whose philosophy emphasizes fluid, attacking football. He has transformed Madagascar into a cohesive unit capable of competing against Africa's best. His focus on technical precision, quick transitions, and offensive versatility has made the Barea a formidable force. Known for his adaptability, Rakotondrabe often employs a high-intensity pressing game that disrupts opponents' build-up play while maximizing his team's attacking opportunities. His tactical discipline and ability to nurture young talent have positioned him as one of the continent's emerging coaching minds. Under his guidance, Madagascar aims to surpass their third-place finish from 2022 and challenge for the ultimate prize.
