Dream end! Harambee Stars fall as hard fighting Madagascar reach CHAN semis
By William Muthama, August 22, 2025Kenya’s Harambee Stars bowed out of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Friday, August 22, 2025, after a tense quarterfinal match against Madagascar at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The match ended 1-1 in regulation and extra time, forcing a dramatic penalty shootout, which the Malagasy team won 4-3.
Harambee Stars started the game strongly, dominating midfield play and creating several scoring opportunities. Boniface Muchiri, Suleiman Manzur Okwaro, Ben Stanley Omondi, and Ryan Ogam linked up with neat passing combinations in the first half but were repeatedly blocked by Madagascar’s organised backline.
The first 45 minutes ended goalless, with both sides showing tactical discipline.
Omija gives Kenya lead
After the break, Harambee Stars returned with renewed urgency. In the 48th minute, Gor Mahia defender Alphonce Omija headed in a well-delivered free kick from Muchiri, giving Kenya a brief lead.
Madagascar equalised in the 69th minute after Lewis Bandi handled the ball inside Kenya’s penalty box. Gilles Razafimaro stepped up and converted the spot-kick, sending the match into extra time.
Penalty heartbreak and next steps
The match proceeded to penalties, where Madagascar edged Kenya 4-3.
Kenya missed two spot kicks through Mike Kibwage and Omija as the islanders progressed to the semis in their third tournament. Madagascar’s goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa was instrumental, saving crucial spot-kicks and ensuring his team’s passage to the semifinals.
Madagascar will face the winner between Algeria and Sudan on August 26, 2025, at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Despite the heartbreak, Kenya’s CHAN campaign highlighted the growing competitiveness and tactical maturity of the Harambee Stars