Morocco and Madagascar set for CHAN 2024 showdown after thrilling semi-finals

Morocco and Madagascar will clash in the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 on Saturday, following dramatic semi-final victories on Tuesday.

The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, ended Senegal’s bid for back-to-back titles after a tense 1-1 draw in Kampala, prevailing 5-3 in a penalty shootout.

Earlier in Dar es Salaam, Madagascar booked a place in their first-ever continental final thanks to a 116th-minute strike from substitute Toky Rakotondraibe, sealing a 1-0 win over Sudan.

In Kampala, Senegal drew first blood when Joseph Layousse headed them ahead in the 16th minute. Morocco responded swiftly, with Sabir Bougrine unleashing a thunderous strike seven minutes later to level the scores.

Both sides had opportunities throughout 120 minutes, with crucial saves from Morocco’s El Mehdi Al Harrar and Senegal’s Marc Diouf keeping the game deadlocked.

When the match went to penalties, Morocco displayed composure, with Hrimat, Lamlaoui, Khairi, Bach, and Mehri all converting their kicks. Senegal’s Seyni Ndiaye saw their opening attempt hit the crossbar, leaving the holders perpetually behind despite converting subsequent penalties.

The 5-3 victory earns Morocco a third CHAN final in six years.

Meanwhile, Madagascar and Sudan produced a cagey contest in Dar es Salaam, only coming alive in extra-time. Despite Sudan creating the clearer chances, it was Madagascar who struck decisively.

In the 116th minute, Fenohasina Razafimaro threaded a precise pass to Rakotondraibe, who calmly beat goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja to send the island nation into uncharted territory.

The final on Saturday at Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi will see Morocco chase a third CHAN title, while Madagascar aims to become the first island nation to lift the trophy.

Before that, Senegal and Sudan will meet in the third-place playoff on Friday at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, offering both teams a chance to end their campaigns on a high note after hard-fought semi-final exits.