World Cup (Q): Madagascar eyes crucial derby win against Comoros

Madagascar is gearing up to face Comoros in a critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying tie from Group I. Only three points separate the two Indian Ocean nations as they enter the final stretch, with Ghana topping the group on 19 points.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by FédérationMalagasydeFootball (@federationmalagasydefootball)

The Barea, as the Malagasy team are popularly known, were boosted by the arrival of Morgan Jean Pierre, Lahaina Rafanomezantsoa, Rayan Raveloson, goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa “Toldo” and defender Tony Randriamanampisoa. Head coach Corentin Martins has summoned a large contingent of foreign-based players, and a few names are included from the Madagascar Pro League.

Dubbed the Indian Ocean derby, the game comes at a time when protests against the Malagasy government broke out a few weeks ago. A win will keep Barea’s hopes for qualification alive ahead of their visit to Mali on Sunday, October 12th.

Wednesday’s clash will be held in Ivory Coast.