The RCT Soavimasoandro and FTF Antohomadinika will face off this Sunday at 10:00 AM at the Makis Andohatapenaka stadium for third place in the Madagascar Women’s First Division Championship. This duel serves as a rematch between two teams that know each other well, with previous encounters often favoring FTFA.
On paper, FTFA holds a psychological advantage. Previous XV-a-side rugby matches highlight the difficulty RCT has faced in competing with their opponent. On March 23, 2025, in their first recorded meeting, the Soavimasoandro players suffered a heavy 5-39 defeat. FTFA confirmed their superiority in November 2025 with a 79-29 victory, followed by another win last April with a score of 17-11.
However, RCT Soavimasoandro has proven its ability to compete with top teams. In rugby sevens, the Soavimasoandro players defeated FTFA 14-7 on August 17, 2025. This is an encouraging result for RCT, even though XV-a-side rugby imposes different demands than sevens.
FTFA intends to rely on its experience and collective mastery to maintain its standing. The Antohomadinika club has consistently shown its ability to dictate the pace and exploit opponent weaknesses. Yet, in a high-stakes match, statistics guarantee nothing: commitment, discipline, and efficiency in key moments can change the outcome.
For RCT, the goal is to translate their progress into a concrete result and end their losing streak in XV-a-side rugby. “We are always ready when it comes to defending the club’s colors on the field. It won’t be easy, but we want to end the season on a high note,” says Avotra Tokiniaina Andrianarisoa, president of RCTS.
Meanwhile, FTFA aims to confirm its superiority and secure third place. Their coach, Bayard Nirina Jacky, remains confident: “We are more determined to seek victory because the girls are physically ready.”
Scheduled for Sunday at 10:00 AM at the Makis stadium in Andohatapenaka, this match promises to be a true test of character for both teams. It will also be an opportunity to assess the progress of Malagasy women’s rugby following a long break that has impacted the players.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-16 06:24:09 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/rugby-xv-dames-rct-et-ftfa-luttent-pour.html