Co-hosts Kenya have failed to qualify for the 2024 African Nations Championship semifinals after losing to Madagascar in the quarterfinals on penalty shoutouts on Friday night at Moi Sports Centre Kasarani. Kenya’s dream run at their debut CHAN tournament ended in heartbreak on Friday as Madagascar held their nerve in a dramatic penalty shoot-out to reach the semi-finals. The Harambee Stars, roared on by a partisan Kasarani crowd, were bidding to reach their first continental semi-final in 38 years. But after a tense 1-1 draw across 120 minutes, Madagascar prevailed 4-3 on spot-kicks, with Toky Rakotondraibe converting the decisive penalty after Alphonce Omija missed for the hosts. Just three minutes into the second half, the towering defender rose highest to meet Boniface Muchiri’s delivery and steered a precise header into the bottom corner. It was a goal that sent Kasarani into delirium and appeared to put Benni McCarthy’s men on course for history. Moments later, Ryan Ogam thought he had doubled the lead, but VAR intervened to chalk off the strike for a foul in the build-up. That decision proved pivotal. Madagascar regrouped and, in the 66th minute, found their route back. A Lewis Bandi handball handed Fenohasina Razafimaro the chance from the spot, and he calmly beat Byrne Omondi to level matters. Omija, who had given Kenya the lead, would later miss his kick in the decisive penalty sequence, underlining the cruel symmetry of football at tournament level. Penalty shoot-out drama With the game locked at 1-1 after extra time, the contest went to penalties. Kenya initially matched their opponents, with Siraj Mohammed and Daniel Sakari scoring confidently. Sylvester Owino also found the net. But pressure told as Mike Kibwage’s effort was saved by Madagascar keeper Michel Ramandimbisoa. When Omija then dragged his attempt wide, Madagascar seized the moment. Toky Rakotondraibe stepped up and drove his kick low past Omondi, sparking celebrations from the Malagasy players and bench. The Harambee Stars had arrived unbeaten from the group stage, topping a pool that included former champions Morocco and DR Congo. Kenya conceded just twice in five matches but struggled to score freely, a factor that ultimately cost them at this stage.
