Kenyans were left in pain after Madagascar narrowly edged out Kenya in a tense quarter-final match of the 2024 CHAN tournament at the Moi International Sports Complex, Kasarani Stadium on Friday, August 22.
The match ended 1–1 after added extra time, before heading to a penalty shoot-out, which the Malagasy won 4–3.
The night had a began with hope for Kenya as they took the lead before turn of the hour.
The first half had ended in a barren draw before Kenya quickly took the lead after the break in the 48th minute with centre-back Alphonce Omija heading home a superb cross from Boniface Muchiri.
Harambee Stars momentarily went 2–0 up with a second goal three minutes later, but Ryan Ogam's strike was ruled out after a VAR check.
Madagascar found their route back into the game in the 66th minute after Harambee Stars were penalised for a Lewis Bandi handball that handed Fenohasina Razafimaro the chance from the spot to level the scores.
Tensed Penalty Shoot-Out
Omija, who had put Kenya ahead, missed his penalty later on.
Siraj Mohammed, Daniel Sakari and Sylvester Owino all found the net for Harambee Stars in the shoot-out.
However, the pressure told as Mike Kibwage’s effort was saved by Madagascar’s goalkeeper, Michel Ramandimbisoa, before Omija dragged his attempt wide.
Toky Rakotondraibe converted the decisive penalty for Madagascar.
Kenya's Stellar CHAN Debut
The narrow loss to Madagascar provided a disappointing end to what had otherwise been a historic tournament for Kenya.
The Harambee Stars advanced to the quarter-finals unbeaten, having topped a group that included two former champions, Morocco and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Kenya conceded just twice in five matches; however, they struggled to score freely, with all their wins coming from solitary goals.
