- The Kenya vs Madagascar CHAN 2024 quarterfinal match will be played on Friday, August 22, at Moi International Sports Centre (MISC) Kasarani.
- Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM EAT.
- While Benni McCarthy is gearing up to face the Michel Toldo challenge between the sticks, the Madagascar goalkeeper remains unfazed by the threat posed by Kenya.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has revealed how his team is preparing to break through Madagascar’s formidable custodian Ramandimbisoa Michel Toldo who has been instrumental for the Islanders at the ongoing Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
After securing a quarterfinal berth by finishing second in Group B in Tanzania, the Bareas are scheduled to face Kenya on Friday, August 22, at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, with kickoff set for 5:00 PM EAT.
Toldo has been a standout performer, earning three Man of the Match awards during the group stage.
He played a crucial role in their goalless draw against Mauritania, was instrumental in the 2-0 victory over the Central African Republic, and shone again during their 2-1 win over Burkina Faso, garnering praise for his consistent excellence between the posts.
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McCarthy plot to break Toldo’s wall
While speaking to the press on Thursday morning ahead of the highly anticipated fixture, Kenya’s tactician McCarthy acknowledged the challenge posed by the experienced custodian but remained optimistic about his side’s preparations.
To secure a victory in this match, we must be fully prepared. We need to elevate our performance because Madagascar boasts an exceptional goalkeeper who understands his role and has been delivering outstanding displays.
We must be more clinical in the final third, and indeed, across every sector of the pitch. Every player must be ready to rise to the occasion and support the team,” McCarthy stated.
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We’ve seen instances where defenders seize opportunities and score. While their keeper is excellent, this is precisely the kind of obstacle we must overcome to achieve our objectives,” stated the former FC Porto forward.
Madagascar custodian Toldo brushes off pressure from Kenya
On the other side, Michel Toldo remains composed heading into the quarterfinal showdown. Addressing the anticipated electrifying atmosphere at Kasarani, the veteran goalkeeper downplayed any concerns.
We are used to playing in front of large crowds, so the Kasarani crowd won’t faze us,” Toldo told journalists during their final training session at Police Sacco Grounds.
The 39-year-old also revealed that winning three Man of the Match awards was part of his personal objectives coming into the tournament.
Claiming those honors was one of my goals at the start of CHAN 2024. It’s my way of helping the team progress,” he added with confidence.
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