The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) reaches the semi-final stage this afternoon with two highly anticipated fixtures, including an unexpected showdown between Madagascar and Sudan.
Few predicted either side would advance this far in the competition. Madagascar stunned many by knocking out Kenya in the quarter-finals, while Sudan produced one of the shocks of the tournament by eliminating Algeria to secure their place in the last four.
For Madagascar, this is a chance to build on recent progress. The Bareas reached the semi-finals in the last edition of CHAN, and with a relatively modest squad, they are determined to go one step further this year by booking a place in the final.
Sudan, meanwhile, arrive with momentum after a commanding group stage campaign. They dismantled Nigeria 4-0 before holding Senegal to a goalless draw, results that underlined both their attacking firepower and defensive resilience. With confidence running high, Sudan are aiming to continue writing their own history in the tournament.
The head-to-head record, however, favours Madagascar. In the three previous meetings between the two nations, the Malagasy side emerged victorious on every occasion.
This adds another layer of intrigue, with Sudan keen to overturn the trend and assert themselves on a stage where the stakes could not be higher.
Kick-off for the semi-final is scheduled for 14:30 GMT. In Sudan, that will be 16:30, while in Madagascar the match begins at 17:30 local time.
Fans will be able to follow the action live, with national broadcaster TVM carrying the game in Madagascar. Additionally, Canal+ Sport Afrique will provide live coverage across the continent.
The contest promises to be a captivating battle of resilience, ambition and belief. Madagascar will rely on their underdog spirit and proven ability to rise to the occasion, while Sudan will look to carry forward their unbeaten run and establish themselves among the continent’s strongest emerging sides.
With both teams eyeing a historic place in the CHAN 2024 final, today’s encounter will not only decide who advances but also reinforce the growing stature of nations that were never expected to reach this stage.
