COSAFA Cup: Madagascar tops guest nation Tanzania to begin play in Group C
- Andrew Olsson
- Jun 7
- 1 min read
The Barea of Madagascar kicked off play in Group C on Saturday with a 1-0 victory over Tanzania at the 2025 COSAFA Cup.
Toky Rakotondraibe's first half strike was enough for the Barea to earn all three points and establish themselves as the early favorites to win Group C. Lalaina Rafanomezantzoa pounced on a midfield turnover by the Tanzanian team and laid a pass off to Rakotondraibe who did the rest, surging by a defender before firing his shot past Taifa Stars goalkeeper Yakoub Suleiman Ali.
A strong start propelled the island nation to victory in an other wise even match. The goal came as a result of sustained pressure before Tanzania responded by producing their fair share of opportunities in the quest for an equalizer.
However, a reasonable strong Tanzanian selection led by Azam FC playmaker Feisal Salum failed to produce the quality needed in the final third to overcome their poor start in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
Both teams will now face Eswatini for their second Group C clash. Madagascar gets first crack on Sunday where a victory will confirm their place in the semifinals as group winners. Tanzania need the Barea to lose to have any chance of advancing before getting their shot at Eswatini on Tuesday.
