The Barea of Madagascar begun their first CHAN journey with a 2-1 victory over the Black Galaxies of Ghana at the stadium.
Rakotondrabe's men who are making their first ever appearance in the continental showpiece surprised the 2014 runners up with an impressive display.
Koloina Razafindranaivo shot the COSAFA side ahead in the 11th minute as he pounced on a defensive lapse from Ghanaian right back Augustine Randolf.
Tsiry Randriantsiferana doubled the lead for the Barea of Madagascar with a beautiful finish, pouncing on another defensive error yet again from Augustine Randolf.
Substitute Augustine Agyapong made a quick impact on the pitch right after coming on the pitch by scoring a goal of the tournament contender.
The Asante Kotoko right-back sent in a thunderous long strike from the right flank of the field which went straight into the net.
Coach Annor Walker later introduced Kwame Otu, Suraj Seidu, Silvester Simba in quest of grabbing the equalizer but all efforts proved futile.
Daniel Afriyie Barnie had a glorious opportunity to grab the leveler but saw his shot saved by goalkeeper Andoniain. Razak Yussif followed with another shot from the rebound which was also denied by the Madagascar goalkeeper.
The game ended in a 2-1 victory for Madagascar as they record a historical victory over the Black Galaxies of Ghana.
📹 Match Highlights: 🇲🇬 2-1 🇬🇭
The only #TotalEnergiesCHAN2022 debutants beat the two-times silver medalists! Relive the most important moments of the game.#MADGHA | @Football2Gether pic.twitter.com/JCO12iaBh5
— MARHABA (@CAF_Online) January 15, 2023
Ghana will now shift attention to their next game as they take on Sudan in a tough tie on Thursday, January 19th, 2023.
Sudan get to walk away with all three points in their opener against Morocco who failed to show up for the championship.
