Africa
Morocco, Madagascar Set for Historic CHAN PAMOJA 2024 Final
The stage is set for a thrilling climax to the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 after Morocco and Madagascar secured their places in Saturday’s final through dramatic semi-final victories.
The Atlas Lions, winners in 2018 and 2020, ended Senegal’s hopes of back-to-back triumphs in a nail-biting penalty shootout in Kampala, while Madagascar booked their first-ever continental final appearance with a late extra-time strike against Sudan in Dar es Salaam.
Morocco’s Composure Ends Senegal’s Title Defence
At the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Senegal made a bright start, taking the lead in the 16th minute when Joseph Layousse rose highest to head past Morocco’s goalkeeper. But the holders’ celebrations were short-lived. Just seven minutes later, Sabir Bougrine unleashed a thunderous shot to bring Morocco level at 1-1.
The two sides went toe-to-toe for the remainder of regular time and throughout extra time, with Morocco’s El Mehdi Al Harrar and Senegal’s Marc Diouf producing vital saves to keep the contest on edge.
With nothing to separate the teams after 120 minutes, the match went to penalties. Morocco displayed nerves of steel, converting all five of their spot kicks through Hrimat, Lamlaoui, Khairi, Bach, and Mehri.
Senegal’s fate was sealed early when Seyni Ndiaye’s opening attempt crashed against the crossbar, leaving the champions chasing throughout. Despite converting their subsequent kicks, Senegal fell 5-3 in the shootout, paving the way for Morocco’s third CHAN final in six years.
Madagascar’s Fairytale Journey Continues
In Dar es Salaam, history was written as Madagascar fought their way into the CHAN final for the first time. Their encounter with Sudan was a tight and cagey affair, marked by few clear chances until extra time.
Sudan threatened to break the deadlock on several occasions, but it was Madagascar who struck the decisive blow. In the 116th minute, substitute Toky Rakotondraibe latched onto a clever pass from Fenohasina Razafimaro before calmly slotting past Mohamed Abooja to secure a 1-0 victory.
The goal sparked wild celebrations both on the pitch and among the island nation’s supporters, as Madagascar achieved what many considered impossible — reaching a continental football final.
Attention now turns to Saturday’s final at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi. Morocco will aim to clinch a record-equalling third CHAN title, adding to their triumphs in 2018 and 2020. Meanwhile, Madagascar will seek to crown their fairytale run by becoming the first island nation to win the prestigious competition.
Before the grand finale, Senegal and Sudan will meet in Kampala on Friday in the third-place playoff, with both sides eager to end their campaigns on a positive note after gallant but heartbreaking semi-final defeats.
The CHAN PAMOJA 2024 final promises high drama, history, and a showcase of African football’s emerging talent — a clash of seasoned champions against ambitious first-timers.
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