Barea's World Cup 2026 & COSAFA Cup Dreams: Madagascar Gears Up!
Madagascar's national football team, Barea, is setting its sights high with preparations underway for both the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the COSAFA Cup. Under the guidance of coach Corentin Martins, the senior team is engaging in crucial friendly matches to fine-tune their strategy.
Friendly Against DR Congo: A World Cup Warm-Up
The Barea recently faced the Democratic Republic of Congo in a friendly match in Orléans, France. This game served as a vital opportunity for Coach Martins to assess his squad and experiment with tactics ahead of the demanding World Cup qualifying campaign.
COSAFA Cup Challenge: Barea A' Faces Tanzania
Meanwhile, the Barea A' team is gearing up for the COSAFA Cup, a regional tournament showcasing Southern Africa's football talent. Their first challenge is against Tanzania, a team they will also face in the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN). Coach Rôrô has travelled to Bloemfontein with a squad of 23 players, aiming to make a strong start in the competition.
The match against Tanzania is crucial. A victory would not only boost morale but also provide valuable momentum for the rest of the tournament. The COSAFA Cup holds significant importance for Madagascar, who are eager to finally lift the trophy that has eluded them since its inception in 1997.
Other COSAFA Cup Highlights:
- South Africa suffered a surprising defeat to Mozambique in their opening match.
- Mauritius secured a commendable draw against Zimbabwe.
- Comoros are considered strong contenders, aiming for a smooth start against Zambia.
With both the World Cup qualifiers and the COSAFA Cup on the horizon, it's a busy and exciting time for Malagasy football. Fans are eagerly anticipating strong performances from both the A and A' teams.