26 April 2015 12:15
The victorious Madagascar team at the recent African Beach Soccer Championship Seychelles 2015 returned home to a heroes’ welcome at a reception in the capital, Antananarivo.
The Islanders beat Senegal 2-1 on penalties and cruised to their first ever continental silverware. In the build-up to the African championship, they were crowned champions of the zonal championship, COSAFA Beach Soccer Championship also staged in Seychelles.
The two trophies were put on display amidst cheers from the thousands of people gathered at the City Hall.
In a speech, the Sports Minister commended the players and the technical team for lifting high the flag of Madagascar. He conveyed the congratulations of President Hery Rajaonarimampianina to the team whilst pledging the support of the Ministry in their preparations for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Portugal in July.
The team later toured the headquarters of the Malagasy Football Federation, where they were received by president of the federation, Ahmad and his vice, Andriamiasasoa Doda.
Ahmad lauded the players and the technical team headed by Claude Barrabe for the joy they have brought to the Malagasy populace.
The team is expected to call on the President of the Republic, Hery Rajaonarimampianina upon his return from a trip abroad.
Madagascar and Senegal will represent Africa at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup from 9-19 July 2015 in Portugal.
Confederation of African Football (CAF) News
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