By Kenya’s historic debut at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) came to a painful end on Friday night after Madagascar edged the Harambee Stars 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out at Kasarani Stadium.
The quarter-final clash, which ended 1-1 after 120 minutes, saw Kenya come agonisingly close to their first continental semi-final in 38 years, only to be undone by the unforgiving lottery of spot-kicks.
It was a night of mixed fortunes for centre-back Alphonce Omija, who both inspired Kenya’s hopes and contributed to their downfall. The towering defender broke the deadlock in the 48th minute with a thumping header from Boniface Muchiri’s cross, sending the home crowd into raptures. But he would later miss the decisive penalty that handed Madagascar victory.
Kenya briefly thought they had doubled their advantage through Ryan Ogam, but VAR ruled the goal out for a foul in the build-up. That decision proved costly as the visitors regrouped and equalised midway through the second half. A handball by Lewis Bandi gifted Madagascar a penalty, which Fenohasina Razafimaro converted coolly past goalkeeper Byrne Omondi.
With neither side able to find a winner in extra time, the match went to penalties. Kenya’s Siraj Mohammed, Daniel Sakari, and Sylvester Owino all converted, but Madagascar goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa denied Mike Kibwage before Omija dragged his attempt wide. Toky Rakotondraibe then buried the decisive kick to seal Madagascar’s place in the last four.
The result marked a cruel end to Kenya’s promising campaign, which had seen them top a tough group that included Morocco and DR Congo. Coach Benni McCarthy’s side conceded only two goals in five matches, but their lack of cutting edge in attack ultimately proved costly.
Despite the disappointment, the Harambee Stars leave the tournament with their heads held high, having rekindled national pride and showcased defensive resilience on their CHAN debut.
For Madagascar, the victory underlines their growing reputation as a force on the African stage. Bronze medalists in 2022, they once again displayed resilience and composure, with goalkeeper Ramandimbisoa emerging as one of the tournament’s standout performers.
Madagascar now march into the semi-finals, while Kenya must settle for the encouragement of a campaign that hinted at brighter days ahead for their football.
