The African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 reaches its decisive stage on Tuesday, with Morocco facing Senegal and Madagascar meeting Sudan in the semi-finals.
The outcomes will guarantee a final between a former winner and a nation seeking its first triumph.
The first semi-final will see Madagascar take on Sudan at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam at 15:30, while later in the day Morocco and Senegal—winners of the last three editions—will clash at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala at 18:30.
Unlike previous tournaments, the host nations have fallen short.
Kenya, Uganda and the Central African Republic were eliminated before the last four, ensuring the final will feature only visiting sides.
Kenya, making its debut in the competition, advanced to the quarter-finals before losing to Madagascar on penalties.
Heavyweights such as DR Congo and Uganda also bowed out early, with the Congolese exiting in the group stage and the Ugandans narrowly beaten 1-0 by Senegal in the quarter-finals.
This edition will deliver a unique final: none of the four semi-finalists has ever lost a CHAN final. Morocco, champions in 2018 and 2020, and Senegal, winners in 2022, have pedigree. Sudan, who twice finished third, and Madagascar, surprise semi-finalists again after their strong 2022 showing, continue to chase their first crown.
Morocco, coached by Tarik Sektioui, are building momentum despite an opening defeat to Kenya.
Forward Oussama Lamlioui has already scored four times, supported by creative players such as Youssef Belammari and reliable goalkeeper Mehdi Al Harrar.
Senegal, meanwhile, boast defensive solidity under Souleymane Diallo, conceding just once so far.
They will look to the likes of striker Oumar Ba, defenders Seyni Ndiaye and Joseph Layousse, and in-form goalkeeper Marc Diouf to guide them through.
Sudan’s progress has been remarkable against the backdrop of political unrest, with many of its clubs forced to play abroad.
Guided by Ghanaian coach James Kwesi Appiah, the Falcons of Jediane stunned Algeria and topped a group that included Senegal.
With Mohamed Tia Abu Daqn leading the charge, they are determined to turn resilience into history.
Madagascar, third-place finishers in 2022, continue their rapid rise under Romuald Rakotonfrabe.
Their quarter-final victory over hosts Kenya highlighted their tactical maturity and collective energy, with goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa again emerging as a key figure.
With two giants meeting on one side and two dreamers on the other, the stage is set for a final that will either crown a repeat champion or deliver a brand-new name to the CHAN trophy. Suspense and intensity appear guaranteed.
