Madagascar Head Coach Reveals Tactical Masterclass That Crushed Sudan’s Dreams

Madagascar national team head coach Romuald Rakotondrabe could hardly contain his emotions after guiding his side to a historic 1-0 victory over Sudan in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) semi-final in Dar es Salaam.

The famous not only secured Madagascar’s first-ever continental final but also highlighted the tactical brilliance and resilience of a side that played with ten men for nearly an hour.

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At the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, the Barea wrote another fairytale chapter after their bronze-medal debut in 2022. This time, their story came with even more drama—injury setbacks, a red card, and a late winning strike that stunned Sudan and propelled Madagascar into African football’s spotlight.

“I can’t find the words to express it now, because what happened is unbelievable considering the circumstances in which we played the match,” Rakotondrabe admitted.

“We lost a player to injury at the beginning of the match, then another player received a red card and for 50 minutes we played with one player less, and then we scored and won. Thanks to the players for their performance. They really have a good character and that’s what enabled us to win.”

What stood out most about Madagascar’s semi-final victory was not just the late goal, but how Rakotondrabe orchestrated his side’s survival and eventual triumph.

Playing with ten men against a Sudan team desperate to break their run of semi-final heartbreaks, Madagascar held firm with discipline and organization.

Sudan’s Kwesi Appiah later lamented his side’s missed chances, but much of the credit belonged to how Madagascar neutralized their threat.

Reduced to ten, Rakotondrabe reshaped his formation to prioritize defensive solidity while still leaving a spark of attack alive.

Rakotondrabe’s decision-making on the touchline was as critical as the players’ execution on the pitch.

With his team under immense pressure, he made bold substitutions, including introducing a forward who could hold up play and relieve the constant Sudanese assault.

That tactical tweak gave Madagascar a crucial outlet and set the stage for their late winner.

“Against Sudan, we changed our tactical plan in the second half, and after our player received a red card, it was difficult for us,” Rakotondrabe explained.

“We brought on another player, and we were looking for a player to keep the ball up front. It was difficult for us to face Sudan with 10 players.”

Sudan’s waves of attacks foundered against a team that refused to break, and when the chance came, Madagascar seized it with both hands.