Madagascar put up a spirited performance to pull an upset as they beat Ghana in Group C opener of the 2022 African Nations Championship.
The Black Galaxies, favourites to win the match failed to convert decent chances to claim three points at the Stade Chahid-Hamlaoui in Constantine.
Koloina Razafidranaivo pounced on loose defending from the Galaxies to put the debutants ahead in the first ten minutes.
Forward Afriyie Barnieh thought he had an opportunity to restore parity from the spot within seconds after Ghana conceded but the referee watched from the VAR pitch view monitor and overruled his earlier decision to award a penalty.
A little over the hour mark, Tokinantenaina Olivier pounced on an under-hit pass by Ghana right-back Randolph to beat goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim and double Madagascar’s lead.
The full-back was momentarily substituted for Kotoko’s Augustine Agyapong who came on and scored a stunner to give Annor Walker’s side a glimmer of hope.
But chances missed by Yussif Razak and Afriyie Barnieh did not ensure a comeback as the Southern Africans begin their maiden appearance with a victory over two-time finalists, Ghana.
The Black Galaxies will be keen to make amends in their next encounter against Sudan on January 19.
