The Madagascar Federal 2 Elite Rugby XV Championship reaches its conclusion this Sunday. Starting at 3 p.m., the Makis Stadium in Andohatapenaka will host the Top 20 Madagascar Championship final between the Rugby Club des Soldats Anosibe (RCSA) and the Rosa Club de l’Imerina (RCI). Both teams will battle for the coveted spot to gain direct promotion to the Top 12, the elite tier of Malagasy rugby.
With high stakes involved, the winner of this final will immediately secure their promotion to the first division, while the loser will still have one final opportunity by playing a playoff match against the 11th-ranked team from the Top 12. It is a scenario both clubs hope to avoid, aiming to conclude their season in the best possible way.
Both teams approach the match with different strengths. RCSA relies on its youth, dynamic play, and the enthusiasm of a group that has climbed the ranks since the regional qualifiers. “We have specifically worked on our defense and attack, which were our main weaknesses in previous matches,” explains coach Jerry. The Soldiers of Anosibe have focused their preparation on collective solidity and efficiency in the scoring zones.
For Désiré Rafidimanana, captain of RCSA and an elected deputy for the 4th arrondissement, the task is difficult, but his teammates are highly determined. “Facing a great club like the Rosa Club is a major challenge. But we are arriving with a young, ambitious, and energetic team. We have the mental determination and the technical preparation needed to pull off a surprise,” he asserts.
For its part, RCI intends to rely on its experience and rich history to make the difference. The Antohomadinika-based club sees this final as the ideal opportunity to return to the elite tier and mark the celebrations of its 65th anniversary. The management and players alike know that promotion to the Top 12 would be a reward commensurate with the efforts made throughout the season.
“Our goal is to reach the Top 12, the national elite. It would be a gift for the club’s 65th anniversary. The players are aware of the stakes and will give their best,” emphasizes Jean Aristide Ralaimampionona, RCI manager.
On Sunday, the experience of the Rosa Club will cross paths with the ambition of RCSA. In a final where every detail will count, only one club will secure its direct ticket to the elite tier, while the other will have to pass through the playoff hurdle before dreaming of the Top 12.
Donné Raherinjatovo
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-19 12:30:30 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/rugby-xv-finale-top-20-le-rcsa-et-le.html