CAR deny Madagascar three points

Foxi Kethevoama of Central African Republic

Thursday Mar 24, 2016. 16:18

Goals by Carolus and Moussa Limane ensured Madagascar and Central African Republic shared the spoils with a 1-1 draw in their 2017 CAF Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier Group B first leg match on Thursday.

The game was played at Stade Municipal de Mahamasina in Antananarivo.

As they were seen as favourites at home the Islanders hoped to bag the full three points but Franck Rajaonarisamba's men couldn't destabilise the visitors' defence.

On the other hand, the Beasts dominated Barea in the first 45 minutes with Foxi Kéthévoama failing to convert two good chances on 10 and 32 minutes.

It was 0-0 at half time and upon their return from the tunnel, both sides failed to create clear cut opportunities leaving the hosts disappointed.

But it was the hosts who came close to bagging their first goal when Njiva hit the woodwork after four minutes into the second stanza.

Towards the 70th minute, Voavy nearly bagged the lead for the hosts as he failed to beat Geoffrey in a one on one scenario.

Nevertheless, Madagascar were handed a penalty in the 77th minute when Youga fouled Carolus inside the box prompting the referee to show the defender his marching orders.

Carolus then easily converted from the spot to hand the hosts the deserved lead with 10 minutes to go.

However, it was not over as Terrence delivered a great ball for substitute Limane who ensured both sides were equal in the 86th minute and made it 1-1.

The second leg is set to get underway at Complexe Sportif Barthélemy Boganda in Bangui on Tuesday next week, 28 March.

Madagascar: (0) 1 (Carolus 80')
CAR: (0) 1 (Limane 86')

Madagascar: Leda, Tantely, Mamy Gervais, François, Mikka, Johann, Zotsara (Voavy 60'), Dafé (Dina 60'), Njiva (Jimmy 75'), Carolus, Ima

CAR: Lembet, Kéthévoama, Kassaï, Kéïta (Gourrier 58'), Youga, Anzité, Enza-yamissi, Mabidé, Kéthévoama, Dagoulou, Momi