The African Nations Championship (CHAN) has reached the knockout stage, with the quarter-finals set to deliver high drama across East Africa.
After an intense group phase, eight teams remain in the hunt for continental glory, with fixtures spread across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zanzibar.
Kenya will open the round with a clash against Madagascar in Nairobi on Friday, 22 August.
The hosts, buoyed by strong home support throughout the competition, will look to capitalise on the atmosphere at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani.
Later the same day, Tanzania will meet Morocco at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The home side will count on their passionate fans to drive them forward, but they face a stern test against a Moroccan side determined to extend their run.
Saturday’s fixtures promise equal intensity. Sudan are scheduled to face Algeria in Zanzibar at the Amaan Stadium, a contest expected to draw huge crowds on the island.
Algeria, with their disciplined approach, will be looking to silence Sudan’s hopes of progressing further.
The final quarter-final sees Uganda take on Senegal in Kampala at the Mandela National Stadium.
Uganda’s supporters have already created one of the most vibrant atmospheres of the tournament, and their presence is likely to play a key role as the Cranes battle the West African side.
The inclusion of all three host nations – Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda – in the last eight ensures that the knockout stage will be played in front of packed stadiums.
The enthusiasm and colour seen in the group stages are expected to reach even greater levels with elimination football now underway.
The winners of these ties will progress to the semi-finals, scheduled for 26 and 27 August, with the grand final to be contested on Saturday, 30 August.
Quarter-final schedule:
- Friday, 22 August: Kenya v Madagascar (Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, Nairobi)
- Friday, 22 August: Tanzania v Morocco (Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam)
- Saturday, 23 August: Sudan v Algeria (Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar)
- Saturday, 23 August: Uganda v Senegal (Mandela National Stadium, Kampala)
With each team now just three wins from lifting the trophy, the stage is set for a decisive weekend that will shape the rest of the tournament.
