There is no room for error anymore for the Ankoay. Struggling after a winless first window, Madagascar begins the second window of the 2027 Qatar World Cup qualifiers in Dakar, running from July 2nd to 5th. Facing the DR Congo in the opening match, the Ankoay must secure a victory to keep their qualification hopes alive.
The first window proved particularly difficult for the Ankoay. They suffered a heavy defeat against Ivory Coast (74-99), followed by a loss to Senegal (66-99), and finally succumbed to DR Congo (79-87).
With three losses in as many games, the Ankoay occupy the last place in Group B, trailing Ivory Coast (3 wins), Senegal (2 wins), and DR Congo (1 win).
Four American reinforcements
The objective is now clear. A victory is essential, and a win by more than eight points would allow Madagascar to regain the goal-average advantage over the Congolese to revive their qualification campaign. Conversely, another defeat would severely complicate Madagascar’s chances before the final two matches against Senegal and Ivory Coast.
This second window also marks the official debut of Mickaël Pivaud as head of the national team. The French coach will be able to count on four new expatriates from the American university league: Donovan Rakotonanahary (Northern Kentucky University), Lovasoa Andriatsarafara (Minot State University), Jerry Rabibisoa (USA), and Michaël Heritiana (New Mexico Military Institute).
These players know each other well. They previously played together for the Malagasy team during the U18 Afrobasket held in Antananarivo in 2022, before participating in the U19 World Cup in 2023. The experience they gained in the United States brings much hope.
“Given the experience they have gained in the United States, their presence in the team could bring a real boost,” says Tahiana Raharivelo, an Ankoay supporter.
This match against the DR Congo could set the tone for the rest of the campaign. A win would reignite Malagasy ambitions before the clashes against Senegal and Ivory Coast, while a defeat would bring the Ankoay closer to premature elimination from the race for the 2027 World Cup.
Donné Raherinjatovo
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-02 05:43:03 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/basketball-5×5-world-cup-qualifiers-le.html