Kenya’s fairy tale debut at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) ended in heartbreak on Friday night as Madagascar triumphed 4-3 on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw at Kasarani Stadium.
The Harambee Stars, buoyed by a raucous home crowd, were aiming to reach their first continental semi-final since 1987.
Their hopes soared when centre-back Alphonce Omija rose highest three minutes into the second half to meet Boniface Muchiri’s delivery, steering home a header that sent Kasarani into delirium.
Moments later, Ryan Ogam thought he had doubled the advantage, but VAR intervened to disallow the strike for a foul in the build-up. That decision shifted momentum, and in the 66th minute Madagascar clawed their way back. A Lewis Bandi handball gifted Fenohasina Razafimaro a spot-kick, which he calmly converted past Byrne Omondi.
Neither side could find a breakthrough in extra time, setting up a nerve-shredding shoot-out. Kenya matched their opponents early on, with Siraj Mohammed, Daniel Sakari, and Sylvester Owino converting confidently. But the pressure told—Mike Kibwage’s effort was saved by Madagascar goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa before Omija, the earlier hero, dragged his kick wide. Toky Rakotondraibe stepped up and buried the decisive penalty, sparking wild celebrations from the Malagasy bench.
For Kenya, it was a bitter end to what had been a historic and uplifting campaign. Coach Benni McCarthy’s side had emerged unbeaten from a daunting group featuring Morocco and DR Congo, showcasing defensive resilience and discipline. Conceding just twice in five matches, the Stars ignited belief that a new era of Kenyan football could be dawning, even if a lack of cutting edge in attack ultimately proved costly.
Madagascar, bronze medalists in 2022, advance to the semi-finals with their reputation as giant-killers intact, while Kenya exit with pride and renewed hope for the future.
