Madagascar head coach Corentin Martins has announced his first squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, introducing five new players while recalling two experienced names ahead of crucial matches.
Among the new call-ups are goalkeeper Thomas Dupire, defenders Jordan Acapandié and Samuel Marcelin, midfielder Couturier, and forward Dauriat, all of whom will be making their debuts for the Barea.
Meanwhile, John Baggio and Arohasina Dax return to the squad after long absences, providing additional experience as Madagascar seeks to strengthen its campaign.
The Barea are set to face Angola and Ghana as they aim to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive.
Currently, Madagascar faces stiff competition in the group and will need strong performances in both matches to remain in contention.
Martins, who took over as head coach recently, appears to be introducing a mix of fresh talent and experienced players as he looks to refine the squad.
His selection reflects a desire to rebuild and add depth, particularly in the defensive and midfield positions.
Madagascar’s squad features a blend of home-based and foreign-based players, with several plying their trade in France, Belgium, and Thailand.
The return of John Baggio, a key figure in the team’s past success, will be welcomed by fans, while the inclusion of young talents like Dauriat and Couturier signals a move towards building for the future.
With two crucial matches ahead, Martins will hope his selections can deliver and keep Madagascar in the race for a historic World Cup qualification.
Squad
Goalkeepers:
- Laiton (FC Avenir Beggen – Luxembourg)
- Dupire (FC Swift Hesperange – Luxembourg)
- Rakotohasimbola (Elgeco Plus – Madagascar)
- Adrien (Tegg FC – France)
Defenders:
- Rabemanantsoa (AS Fanalamanga – Madagascar)
- Acapandié (FC Nantes – France)
- Marcelin (Beitar Jerusalem – Israel)
- Berajo (Saint-Denis FC – La Réunion)
- Millimono (Othellos Athienou – Cyprus)
- T. Fontaine (FC Sochaux – France)
- Morgan (US Orléans – France)
- Randriamanampisoa (Elgeco Plus – Madagascar)
Midfielders:
- Raveloson (Young Boys – Switzerland)
- Ilaimaharitra (KV Kortrijk – Belgium)
- Couturier (FC Villefranche – France)
- Rafanomezantsoa (CFFA – Madagascar)
- Arohasina Dax (Fosa Juniors FC – Madagascar)
- Tommy Iva (US Orléans – France)
Forwards:
- Lapoussin (Saint-Trond – Belgium)
- Dauriat (EA Guingamp – France)
- Abdallah (Dinamo Bucharest – Romania)
- Randrianantenaina (Al Gouna – Egypt)
- Caddy (FC Stade Lausanne Ouchy – Switzerland)
- Raheriniaina (Paris FC – France)
- Rakotoharimalala (Ratchaburi – Thailand)
- John Baggio (Sukhothai – Thailand)
Credit: CAF Online
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