Madagascar vs Eswatini

Madagascar vs. Eswatini: COSAFA Cup Showdown with Knockout Stakes

Monday Afternoon – Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium

Madagascar are just one step away from securing a spot in the 2025 COSAFA Cup knockout stages—but standing in their way is an Eswatini side desperate to kickstart their campaign with a win.

A single point would be enough for Madagascar to advance after their opening victory, but Eswatini, still hunting their first points, will throw everything at this clash to keep their own hopes alive.

Madagascar’s Momentum

Fresh off a hard-fought 1-0 win over Tanzania, Madagascar shook off the rust from their March defeat to Ghana and put themselves in pole position to escape Group C. Toky Rakotondraibe’s first-half strike made the difference, proving decisive in a tight contest.

Now, Corentin Martins’ men are on the brink of their first COSAFA Cup semi-final since 2018—a year where they dominated the group stage and stunned South Africa in the quarters.

Their recent history against Eswatini adds extra spice to this clash. The two sides met twice in December for an African Nations Championship qualifier, with Madagascar advancing despite a 1-0 second-leg loss. Overall, however, they’ve only beaten Eswatini once in their last four meetings.

Eswatini’s Uphill Battle

Eswatini have long been COSAFA Cup regulars, but they’ve never lifted the trophy—or even reached the final. Their best finishes (third place in 2016 and 2021) show promise, but Zdravko Logarušić’s side will need a big performance to keep their 2025 dreams alive.

Their recent form has been mixed. A thrilling 3-3 draw against Mauritius last time out showcased their attacking potential, but before that, they struggled in front of goal, failing to score in three of their previous four matches.

A loss here would send them crashing out early, but a draw could leave Group C wide open—especially with Tanzania still to come on Wednesday.

The Stakes

For Madagascar, it’s simple: avoid defeat, and they’re through. But Eswatini must go all-out for victory to stay in contention. With pride, history, and a semi-final place on the line, this promises to be a tense battle.