The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) may have ended, but one name continues to resonate across African football Michel Ramandimbisoa. The 39-year-old Madagascar goalkeeper, fondly nicknamed “Toldo” after Italian legend Francesco Toldo, became the heartbeat of the Barea’s fairytale run to their first-ever CHAN final.
3. A Late Bloomer Who Rose to the Occasion
For most of his career, Ramandimbisoa was not in the spotlight for Madagascar at major competitions. He missed the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2022 CHAN, largely due to eligibility rules. Having spent almost a decade in Seychelles with Saint Louis Suns United, he was ineligible for CHAN, which only permits players competing in their domestic leagues.
That changed in early 2024 when he returned home and signed with ASSM Elgeco Plus, finally opening the door to represent his country. What followed was a string of heroic performances that lit up the tournament. He saved 25 of the 29 shots he faced, earned multiple Man of the Match awards, and became the difference-maker in crucial knockout games. His penalty save against Kenya’s Mike Kibwage in the quarter-final remains one of the defining moments of the tournament.
2. Discipline and Longevity as His Driving Force
At 39, Ramandimbisoa stunned many with his agility, sharp reflexes, and commanding presence. His ability to remain at peak performance is rooted in strict discipline. He attributes his longevity to rigorous fitness routines, balanced nutrition, and an unwavering dedication to maintaining peak physical condition.
Inspired by greats such as Manuel Neuer and Ederson, he blends traditional shot-stopping with leadership and distribution skills. Even when Madagascar played with 10 men for 50 minutes in the semi-final, he stood tall, organizing his defense with authority and calmness. For him, retirement is not yet on the horizon he has openly stated he wants to play until at least 45, echoing the legendary career span of Gianluigi Buffon.
1. From Seychelles Champion to Madagascar’s Guardian
Ramandimbisoa’s road to CHAN 2024 glory has been unique. In Seychelles, he enjoyed success, winning a league title with Saint Louis Suns United and being crowned the best goalkeeper of the 2023-24 season. Yet that very success kept him away from CHAN for years.
Now back home, he has transformed into Madagascar’s ultimate guardian. Beyond CHAN, he has also helped the Barea shine at the 2024 Cosafa Cup, reaching the semi-finals. His journey is a story of perseverance, discipline, and unwavering belief—qualities that turned him into one of CHAN 2024’s unforgettable stars.
