Madagascar’s dream run continues as they take on Tunisia in Cairo on Thursday.
The Africa Cup of Nations debutants produced another upset by beating DR Congo in their round of sixteen tie.
Ibrahim Amada’s superb 20-yard strike gave Madagascar the lead before Cedric Bakambu equalized with a header.
The Indian Ocean islanders took the lead again through Faneva Andriatsima however Chancel Mbemba scored in the 90th minute to take the game into extra-time.
After a goalless 30 minutes, DR Congo missed two of their penalties whilst Madagascar scored all of theirs to secure a spot in the last eight.
Tunisia also progressed from the round of sixteen with a penalty shootout victory. They overcame Ghana to reach their third consecutive AFCON quarter final.
They took the lead through Taha Yassine. The ES de Tunis forward converted Wajdi Kechrida’s cross in the 73rd minute.
Tunsia were just seconds away from winning the game in 90 minutes however substitute Rami Bedoui headed into this own net in injury time, with his first touch of the match.
They eventually won 5-4 on penalties with Ferjani Sassi scoring the winning kick to send his team into the quarter-finals.
Tunisia drew all three of their group matches; scoring two goals and conceding twice in the process. They have been below par so far and will be wary of Madagascar’s outstanding performances.
On the other hand, Madagascar finished top of Group B after claiming victories over Nigeria and Burundi whilst drawing with Guinea. They have exceeded all expectations and will be desperate to continue their remarkable run.
There is an evident gulf in quality between the two teams however in terms of the tournament, Madagascar will come into this match as the more confident team.
They are currently ranked 108th in the FIFA World Rankings. Tunisia are 25th but it’s likely to be a tight match on Thursday, given what is at stake.
The two sides have met on four occasions previously. Tunisia have beaten Madagascar three times whilst Madagascar’s sole victory came all the way back in 1987.
With Tunisia under performing and Madagascar overachieving, it’s not clear who will come out on top on Thursday.
Forebet predicts a close encounter, with another penalty shootout a possibility.
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