PHILIP CHIYANGWA and his election campaign team broke into a frenzy and threw new Caf president Ahmad Ahmad into the air after the Madagascar Football Federation boss thumped long serving Issa Hayatou in a poll held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Thursday morning.

Ahmad defeated Hayatou by 34 votes to 20, thus bringing to an end Hayatou's reign, which began when he replaced Abdel Halim Mohammad in 1988.

The astounding result, which was announced at the Caf’s 39th General Assembly in Addis Ababa, prompted shock and celebrations across social media.

Fans, pundits and observers are celebrating the departure of the 70-year-old, who has been accused of various controversies during his long stint at the helm.

ZIFA president was Ahmad’s election campaign manager and hinted during his birthday celebration – attended by scores of FA leaders in Harare last month – that 35 was a dangerous number.

His prediction was just one vote short.