Madagascar head coach, Romuald Rakotondrabe has cautioned his team not to get carried away following their 2-1 Group C win over Ghana at the ongoing 2022 African Nations Championship on Sunday.
The Barea were seen as minnows in the group, considering this is their first ever CHAN outing as well. They however put in a brave effort with Koko Razafindranaivo giving them the lead in the 10th minute before Tsiry Randriatsiferana doubled it on the hour mark.
Even though Ghana pulled one back via Augustine Agyapong, the Malagasy held firm for all three points, giving them control of proceedings in Group C.
“I am very proud of my players and what they have produced tonight. They beat the favourites and as I mentioned yesterday, the game of football is played on the pitch and not on paper,” Rakotondrabe said on the CAF website.
“We must also be careful not to get carried away. Beating Ghana does not mean we can win the tournament. We still have more matches to play and they will be just as difficult.”
Rakotondrabe went on praise his players, stressing on team spirit and unity as a factor in the unexpected victory.
“We have highly dedicated players who are willing to do anything for the team. We have been together for years and we are like a family,” he said.
“We also tried watching some videos of the opposition, but the victory is definitely due to the team spirit, unity and solidarity that exists in the camp and the pride we have for our nation.”
Madagascar will be looking to put in another fine performance when they take on Sudan at Mohamed Hamlaoui Stadium on Thursday.
