Madagascar Unveil 25-Man Squad For Nigeria Clash As AFCON Qualifiers Begin

Madagascar head coach Corentin Martins has announced a 25-man squad for the country’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixtures against Nigeria and Tanzania in Group C.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Martins reduced the selection from an initial provisional list of 55 players, with the majority of those making the final squad based outside Madagascar. A number of players from the domestic league were also included.

Madagascar will begin their qualifying campaign against Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, September 25.

The Barea will then return home to host Tanzania’s Taifa Stars four days later in their second Group C fixture as they seek to make a positive start to their qualification campaign.

Martins is expected to commence the team’s training camp this weekend as preparations intensify for the two important matches.

The squad features goalkeeper Zacharie Boucher of ESTAC, while the defensive options include Andy Pelmard of Clermont Foot, Sandro Tremoulet of Karlsruher SC, Thomas Fontaine of Goal FC and Ryan Ponti of Rodez Aveyron Football.

In midfield, Martins has selected Marco Ilaimaharitra of Standard Liège, Rayan Raveloson of Amed SK, Behaja Randriamalala of US Monastir and Loïc Lapoussin of GX Hengchen.

Madagascar’s attacking options include El Hadary Raheriniaina of AS Nancy, Hakim Abdallah of UTA Arad, Arnaud Randrianantenaina of Gloria Bistrița, Roman Ferber of Atert Bissen, Warren Caddy of Randers FC and Nicolas Fontaine of FC Septemvr.

The squad selection marks the beginning of Madagascar’s preparations for two fixtures that could provide an early indication of the team’s prospects in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.