The dream has faded. Defeated 3-0 by Nigeria during the fourth day of the Billie Jean King Cup at the National Tennis Centre in Gaborone, Botswana, the Malagasy team can no longer contend for the promotion play-offs. The ‘Akomba’ will have to wait until the next edition to hope to join Group II.
Facing Nigeria in the final match of the group stage, the Malagasy players suffered a decisive 3-0 loss. The first to compete, Harena Voaviandraina, could not withstand Success Ogunjobi. After winning the first set 6-2, the Nigerian player conceded the second set before regaining control to win 6-3, 6-3.
In the second singles match, Iariniaina Tsantaniony faced the formidable Barakat Oyinlomo Quadre. The Nigerian dominated the match from start to finish, winning 6-3, 6-3 and securing the victory point for her team.
The doubles match did not allow the Akomba to save face. Against the Nigerian duo of Khadijat Eleojo Mohammed and Barakat Oyinlomo Quadre, Elisa Andriantefihasina and Iariniaina Tsantaniony were defeated in two sets, 6-2, 6-0, sealing the Malagasy defeat.
This setback ends Madagascar’s promotion hopes. In this Africa Group III, only the top three nations from each pool qualify for the promotion play-offs. At the end of these play-offs, the winner and the runner-up will secure their ticket to Group II of the Billie Jean King Cup next season.
Nevertheless, the Akomba finished their campaign with two victories and one defeat. The goal is now to look ahead to the 2027 edition, where the girls will once again attempt to secure their promotion to Group II.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-16 06:26:50 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/tennis-billie-jean-king-madagascar-dit.html