The final round of the CHAN 2024 group stage reaches its climax in Group D today, with Senegal, Sudan, and Congo all still in contention for two coveted quarter-final spots, while Nigeria prepare to bow out of the competition.
Both fixtures, Sudan against Senegal and Nigeria against Congo, are scheduled to kick off simultaneously at 17:00 GMT, setting the stage for an evening of drama where the group’s fate may hinge on the smallest of margins.
Senegal and Sudan go into their meeting level on four points each, having both secured a win and a draw in their opening matches. Their clash in the Mauritanian capital is widely seen as a final before the final, with both sides capable of ensuring qualification with a single point.
Yet, neither will be content with settling for second place. Victory would allow the winner to top the group, avoiding a potentially tougher quarter-final opponent and maintaining momentum heading into the knockout rounds.
The stakes, however, are equally high in defeat. Should either team lose and Congo secure victory over Nigeria by a sufficient margin, one of today’s leaders could be eliminated despite having begun the evening in a commanding position. Goal difference could prove decisive, amplifying the pressure on both sides to attack while guarding against costly mistakes.
For Congo, currently third with two points, the task is straightforward but demanding. They must beat Nigeria to keep their qualification hopes alive. Anything less would end their journey at the group stage.
The Congolese side have shown resilience throughout the competition but know they must combine efficiency in attack with discipline at the back to stand a chance of progressing.
Nigeria, meanwhile, sit bottom of the table with no points from their opening fixtures. Their elimination is already confirmed, yet the Super Eagles will be determined to salvage pride in their final outing.
Free from pressure, they could pose a dangerous threat to Congo’s ambitions, particularly if their youthful squad play with freedom and confidence.
The clash between Sudan and Senegal is attracting the greater spotlight, not only because of the stakes but also due to the historic rivalry between the two nations. Both sides have displayed strong defensive organisation so far, conceding just once each in the group stage.
The duel is likely to be tight and tactical, with small details — a set-piece, a moment of individual brilliance, or a defensive lapse — potentially deciding the outcome.
Coaches from both camps have emphasised composure and discipline ahead of the fixture, knowing that the ability to withstand pressure will be as crucial as attacking flair.
The prospect of finishing top of the group, avoiding a more daunting quarter-final tie, and continuing their quest for CHAN glory ensures that neither Sudan nor Senegal will approach the encounter lightly.
As the clock ticks towards kick-off, anticipation is mounting across the continent. Group D remains delicately balanced, and tonight’s simultaneous matches promise tension, drama, and perhaps last-minute twists that could redefine the trajectory of all three teams still in the race.
Today’s fixtures:
Sudan vs Senegal (17:00 GMT)
Nigeria vs Congo (17:00 GMT)
