Tanzania will face Madagascar on Saturday evening at 17:00 GMT in their final group-stage match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The Taifa Stars, co-hosting the tournament alongside Uganda and Kenya, have enjoyed a flawless start to their campaign with back-to-back victories over Burkina Faso and Mauritania. Another win would not only preserve their perfect record but also secure early qualification for the quarter-finals.
Madagascar, however, enter the clash with a point to prove. After holding Mauritania to a crucial draw, the Barea are looking to deliver one of the tournament’s biggest shocks by halting Tanzania’s momentum.
The challenge is formidable — the hosts have emerged as one of the standout teams of CHAN 2024, combining solid defensive organisation with clinical finishing in attack.
For Tanzania, Saturday’s encounter is more than just a routine group match. Securing maximum points would give them a significant advantage heading into the knockout phase, allowing them to rest key players and prepare strategically for tougher challenges ahead.
The home crowd, buoyant after two impressive wins, will expect nothing less than another commanding display.
Madagascar, meanwhile, know that a victory could transform their tournament fortunes. Three points against one of the competition’s form sides would not only boost their qualification hopes but also send a strong signal to the rest of the field.
The Barea will likely approach the game with tactical discipline, aiming to frustrate Tanzania while capitalising on counter-attacking opportunities.
As the stakes rise in Dar es Salaam, the match promises high intensity, contrasting ambitions, and a charged atmosphere. Tanzania are within touching distance of the quarter-finals; Madagascar are desperate to keep their dream alive. Only one side will leave the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium satisfied.