Harambee Stars Eliminated by Madagascar on Penalties in CHAN 2024 Quarterfinals.
Kenya were eliminated from CHAN 2024 after a 1-1 draw with Madagascar at Kasarani, losing on penalties despite Omija’s opener.
African Nations Championship co-hosts Kenya were eliminated by Madagascar at Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani in dramatic circumstances after losing 4-3 on post-match penalties in the quarterfinal.
The match finished 1-1 after extra time, with Alphonce Omija on target for Kenya, while Fenohasina Razafimaharo equalised for Madagascar from the penalty spot.
Madagascar will go on to face winner between Sudan and Algeria in the first semifinal, set to be played at Mandela National Stadium on Tuesday, August 26.
From the first whistle McCarthy’s men were on the front foot dictating the tempo and pinning the visitors deep into their own half.
The South African tactician made four changes to his side, with Bryne Omondi restored in goal, Alphonse Omija partnering Michael Kibwage in central defense and Suleiman Manzur and Boniface Muchiri both returning to the starting XI.
The big talking point before kickoff was the omission of Sylvester Owino, whose ever-present run through CHAN finally came to an end.
Joint top scorer Austin Odhiambo was also left on the bench, as he had been against Morocco. Even without them, Kenya looked sharp.
)
Muchiri, full of running on the flank, repeatedly stretched Madagascar’s back line, while Lewis Bandi and Marvin Nabwire recycled possession to keep the pressure constant.
The Stars carved out promising moments with Ben Stanley Omondi almost linking up with Ryan Ogam inside the box only for Malagasy keeper Ramandimbisoa Michel to read the danger and collect bravely. At the other end, Madagascar offered little.
Isolated striker Jean Luc Rakotson was comfortably marshaled by Kibwage and Omija, who snuffed out the few forays forward.
Kenya were clearly in the ascendancy, forcing their opponents onto the back foot and spending much of the half camped in the final third