'Almost Broke My Heart' – Madagascar Coach Reacts After Dramatic Shootout Win Over Harambee Stars

Romuald Rakotondrabe admitted the dramatic penalty shootout against Harambee Stars was emotionally draining, but praised his team for sealing a historic CHAN semi-final spot.

Madagascar's coach Romuald Rakotondrabe admitted that the penalty shootout ‘almost broke my heart’ as he credited his team's meticulous preparation and mental fortitude for securing their place in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

Madagascar were up against Kenya’s Harambee Stars in the quarterfinal of CHAN 2024 on Friday night, August 22, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

However, Madagascar proved too strong for Harambee Stars. This forced Kenya’s dream debut to come to a heartbreaking end as Madagascar held their nerve in a dramatic penalty shootout to advance to the semi-finals.

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Harambee Stars were aiming to reach their first continental semi-final in 38 years. However, after a tense 1-1 draw over 120 minutes, Madagascar triumphed 4-3 on spot-kicks. Toky Rakotondraibe scored the winning penalty after Alphonce Omija missed for the hosts.

CHAN 2024: Madagascar Coach Reflects on Penalties Against Harambee Stars

The Malagasy coach confessed that the shootout was a nerve-wracking ordeal, despite his team's eventual triumph.

"The penalties were very difficult, almost broke my heart. It is always difficult to play penalties," coach Romuald Rakotondrabe admitted as per CAF Online.

Though the tension was draining, the result was sweet. Madagascar are now just one match away from reaching the CHAN final for the first time in their history.

CHAN 2024: How Madagascar Tamed Harambee Stars

"We put in a lot of work with different tactics. We had to find the best way to beat Kenya. The players put in some massive work, and we had to be ready mentally," coach Rakotondrabe explained.

Harambee Stars had already topped a difficult group containing Morocco and DR Congo, but facing Madagascar presented a unique challenge.

Madagascar withstood waves of Kenyan attacks before Fenohasina Razafimaro equalised from the penalty spot, forcing the game into extra time and ultimately to a shootout.

"We knew Kenya would be dangerous in front of their fans. We had to adjust during the game, and I’m proud of the discipline the players showed," Rakotondrabe added.

CHAN 2024: Madagascar Goalkeeper Earns Coach’s Admiration

While tactical adjustments laid the groundwork, it was goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa who delivered the decisive moments. The 25-year-old made two crucial saves in the shootout, ensuring Madagascar's 4-3 victory.

"We are very proud to have him with us. He has really helped us in every match, and we hope he can go into the next game with the same spirit," Rakotondrabe said.

Ramandimbisoa has now made more saves than any other goalkeeper in the tournament, highlighting why his coach considers him essential to the Barea's fairytale run.

CHAN 2024: Madagascar Looking Ahead with Belief After Silencing Harambee Stars

For Rakotondrabe, the victory in Nairobi was more than just a ticket to the last four, it was a testament to Madagascar's growing stature in African football.

Having already secured a bronze medal at CHAN 2022, his team is determined to go even further this year.

"The players have shown they can handle pressure, they can adapt and fight. Now we must continue with the same mentality in the semi-final," he stated.

Madagascar's triumph silenced the boisterous Kasarani crowd but cemented the Barea's reputation as one of the tournament's most resilient teams.

From tactical intelligence to individual brilliance in goal, Rakotondrabe has every reason to believe his side's fairytale can continue.