Once again, Madagascar's Barea will engage in international matches far from their home crowd. For their first home match in the qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2027) against Tanzania in early October, the Malagasy team will be compelled to relocate to Morocco. This situation arises as eight other African nations also find themselves without an approved stadium. The Barea Stadium in Mahamasina remains unavailable, and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is unwavering in its regulations. Consequently, Morocco has once again become the opulent hub for African football, with nine teams, including Niger, Lesotho, Central African Republic, Liberia, Benin, Togo, Guinea, Somalia, and Madagascar, seeking refuge in the Kingdom to play their 'home' matches during the initial window of September-October.
The underlying reason remains consistent: their national venues do not meet the stringent standards set by the CAF. As a result, qualification matches have turned into forced journeys, far removed from their supporters, the vibrant atmosphere, and the advantages of playing on familiar turf. For Madagascar, the upcoming schedule appears particularly treacherous. Following an away match against Nigeria's Super Eagles on the first matchday, the Barea will 'host' Tanzania somewhere between Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier, or Fez, between September 21 and October 6. The CAF has approved several Moroccan stadiums for these matches, including the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, and the larger venues in Marrakech, Tangier, and Fez, along with those in El Jadida, Safi, Oujda, and Meknès.
In Group L, the stakes are clear and unforgiving. Tanzania, co-hosting the final phase alongside Kenya and Uganda next summer, is already qualified by default. This leaves only one real spot to compete for between Madagascar, Nigeria, and Guinea-Bissau. Every point will be invaluable. However, playing without the Malagasy 'twelfth man' on foreign soil against the Taifa Stars, who are already relieved of any pressure, will be a significant disadvantage right from the outset.
The paradox is stark. While Morocco continues to gain approvals and establish itself as the essential hub for continental football, Madagascar is still awaiting the Barea Stadium to regain the favor of the CAF. Last-ditch renovations are set to commence in September, with the stated goal of hosting at least Nigeria in March 2027. Until then, the Barea will have no choice but to adapt and turn these 'home' relocations into a regular occurrence.
As reported by newsmada.com.
