The Madagascar national basketball team, Ankoay, has started receiving their overseas players back to the country.
Ankoay began their preparations on February 2nd and will play against Ivory Coast on February 21st. A single win is enough for them to advance in the Afrobasket 2025 qualifiers.
Among the overseas players joining the team are Rija Lahontan, Kiady Razanamahenina, Sitraka Raharimanantoanina, M’Madi Mathias, and Johan Andy Pierre Randriamananjara.
In Group D standings, Ivory Coast leads with three victories and six points. Egypt follows with two wins and one loss, accumulating five points. Madagascar’s other opponent, the Central African Republic, has lost all three of their games and is in the last position with three points.
Madagascar sits third in the standings with four points, having one win and two draws. However, if they manage to secure even one victory, it will be enough for them to advance to the next stage.
One of Ankoay’s coaches, Ndranto Rakotonanahary, made the following statement regarding the match:
“At least, we will do everything to secure a win. This victory is crucial, regardless of the opponent (Ivory Coast, Egypt, Central African Republic). We will give our best from day one.”