The friendly clash between Kenya and Madagascar at Kasarani has turned into a gripping contest, one that has now stretched into overtime after both sides struck in quick succession to leave the score at 1-1 at the end of regulation.
Kenya got off to a dream start when Omija opened the scoring, sending the home crowd into thunderous celebrations.
His composed finish capped off a promising spell for the Harambee Stars, who pressed with energy and looked determined to set the tone early. The noise inside Kasarani was deafening, with fans rallying behind the team and urging them forward.
But Madagascar were never going to roll over. The visitors, who had shown glimpses of danger in the first half, found their equalizer after a spell of sustained pressure.
Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa, who had come close earlier, was central to their attacking push, testing Kenya’s backline before the breakthrough finally came. The goal silenced the stadium momentarily, a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can swing in football.
The remainder of regular time was a flurry of chances at both ends. Kenya sought to reassert dominance, with surging runs and shots forcing the Malagasy keeper into key saves. Madagascar, meanwhile, looked equally threatening on the counter, stretching the Kenyan defense and nearly snatching the lead.
With neither side able to find the winner, the referee’s whistle signaled overtime, much to the excitement of the fans who remained firmly on their feet.
The first overtime period has now kicked off, and with the series finely poised, the next 30 minutes will be decisive.
Both Kenya and Madagascar know that one moment of brilliance—or one mistake—could tilt the balance. The atmosphere at Kasarani is electric as the battle for the lead continues.
