In Madagascar, the Ladies Makis – the women’s rugby union team – made the island vibrate yesterday. Playing their last match against South Africa in the African Cup of Nations, they were beaten 17-46 by the Springboks, big favorites, who qualified directly for the 2025 Rugby World Cup in England.The Ladies Makis, for their part, were crowned vice champions of Africa and entered the WXV3, the 3rd division World Cup in Dubai which promises to be the ultimate springboard to reach the World Cup. Despite their defeat, the players once again captured the hearts of the spectators.
2 mins
with our correspondent in Antananarivo, Sarah Tétaud
A final try scored by the Malagasy team, a few minutes before the end of the match: that’s all it takes for the audience, already excited, to electrify the stadium.
The Ladies Makis lost the match. But for supporters, like Nancy and Manitra, the important thing is elsewhere.
“ We are very proud because Madagascar is going to the World Cup (WXV3, editor’s note). We are impressed by their level. Because we always talk a lot about [performances des joueurs] males, but it’s the girls who impress us! »
Simple and inspiring women. Like their captain Fenitriniaina Razafindramanga.
“ We just did an incredible thing! In addition to being qualified, we are proud because the girls gave everything for our nation. Some are single mothers, others are saleswomen. There are all kinds of women! I am a student. I train before going to college, every day. And I train on my own. For example, it’s my parents who pay my travel expenses… because the most important thing is the love for rugby! »
Their coach, Alain Randriamihaja, compares this sport to a school of life.
“ Playing rugby is in their DNA. The majority of them are unemployed or work small jobs. Nothing grandiose. What keeps them going is their passion for this sport. They set an example, particularly to the poorest in the country. Rugby opened up opportunities for them. And changed their lives. »
Read alsoRugby: the Malagasy apprentices in the Women’s African Cup
If the oval ball has always been very popular on the island, over the past decade, the discipline has evolved considerably: largely thanks to the arrival of female players in high-level competitions. The Ladies Makis are indeed making history.
Also listen(archive) Madagascar: rugby school, school of life