CHAN 2024: All set for the semis as Sudan carry a nation’s hope while Morocco look to crush Senegal’s rising stars
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Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 26.08.25. | 08:02
Sudanese is writing its own inspirational story. With domestic football back home disrupted, expectations were low...
After a two-day pause, the African Nations Championship (CHAN) roars back on Tuesday with two heavyweight semi-finals in Uganda and Tanzania, setting the stage for Saturday’s much-anticipated grand finale in Nairobi.
Madagascar vs Sudan, 5:30PM, Benjamin Mkapa Stadium (Tanzania)
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Madagascar’s remarkable rise on the continental stage continues. The Barea, who claimed bronze in the 2022 edition, are once again defying the odds. Their journey this year has been gritty as they squeezed past the group stage on goal difference before silencing hosts Kenya in Nairobi with a dramatic penalty shootout victory in front of a raucous home crowd.
Head coach Romuald Rakotondrabe believes that result was the catalyst: “The win against Kenya was a turning point psychologically. It proved we can handle difficult moments. Our strength is unity, and we believe in the power of teamwork.”
Madagascar’s identity is built on fluid passing, patience in possession, and relentless pressing. Forward Rayan Ravelomanantsoa has been decisive in attack, while midfield orchestrator Toky Randrianarisoa keeps their rhythm intact.
But standing in their way is a Sudanese side writing its own inspirational story. With domestic football back home disrupted, expectations were low. Yet under the guidance of Ghanaian tactician James Kwesi Appiah, the Falcons of Jediane have soared. They topped a group that included defending champions Senegal before stunning Algeria, last edition’s runners up, in a penalty shootout thriller in Zanzibar.
For Appiah, the mission is bigger than football: “We are fighting for more than the game itself. We want to give the Sudanese people joy, even for just 90 minutes. That spirit is our fuel.”
Defender Faris Abdallah Mamoun echoed the sentiment: “We are united, and we’ve promised to give our all so that our people can celebrate.”
Both teams have scored six goals, both remain unbeaten in shootouts this year, and both are chasing history. Sudan are in their third CHAN semi final but have never progressed beyond this stage. Madagascar, meanwhile, are one win away from becoming the first island nation to reach a CAF senior final.
Senegal vs. Morocco, 8:30 PM, Mandela National Stadium (Uganda)
If the first semi-final is a story of underdogs, the second is a collision of pedigree and ambition.
Reigning champions Senegal arrive with the youngest squad at CHAN 2024. Coach Souleymane Diallo has entrusted a new generation with only one player from last year’s winning team remaining. Despite their inexperience, they have been rock solid, conceding just once in four games.
Their path has been pragmatic but effective. Three goals scored, three clean sheets, and a gritty 1-0 quarter final win over Uganda secured by striker Oumar Ba. Between the posts, goalkeeper Marc Diouf has stood tall, producing clutch saves when it mattered most.
Diallo is convinced his youthful side can rise to the occasion: “This is a new generation of Senegalese footballers. They may be young, but they are fearless and disciplined. They’re ready to write their own history.”
Morocco, by contrast, are the tournament’s most seasoned campaigners. Two time champions, the Atlas Lions have reached the last four with ruthless efficiency, leading the semi finalists in goals with nine and shots on target with 29.
Coach Tarik Sektioui has harnessed their experience and attacking depth. Striker Oussama Lamlaoui has found the net in three straight matches, while playmaker Youssef Mehri tops the assists chart with his vision and creativity.
Sektioui, though confident, remains grounded: “We respect Senegal. They are champions for a reason. But our ambition is clear. We want to bring the trophy back to Morocco. Attention to detail will decide this game.”
The numbers back their intent. Since 2016, Morocco have won five consecutive CHAN matches against West African sides, scoring 17 goals in the process. Victory tonight would book them a third final in six years, a testament to their dominance at this level.
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