CHAN2024: FIFA president, three East African musicians to grace final in Nairobi

FIFA president Gianni Infantino will be the chief guest at Saturday’s 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, marking his first-ever appearance at a tournament in Kenya.

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The global football leader, who has previously attended AFCON and WAFCON finals, will witness the conclusion of the month-long CHAN tournament co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Infantino jetted into the country early Saturday morning, followed by CAF President Patrice Motsepe, who is expected to host a press conference in Nairobi.

The final is expected to attract a large and enthusiastic crowd, with regular tickets for the final already being sold out.

The championship showdown will feature two-time winners Morocco facing off against Madagascar, who are making their debut in a CHAN final after finishing third in the 2022 edition.

CHAN 2024: History beckons for Morocco and Madagascar in big final

Morocco displayed nerves of steel to overcome Senegal in a tense semifinal in Uganda, prevailing 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time.

Meanwhile, 10-man Madagascar secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Sudan in Tanzania, surviving over 40 minutes with a numerical disadvantage following a sending off.

Morocco head coach Tarik Sektioui praised his squad’s mentality and focus. “It was a tough match against the defending champions, but the players showed composure at the key moments.

We have fought hard to reach this stage, and now we want to win the trophy again,” he said.

Madagascar head coach Romuald Rakotondrabe remained measured in his comments ahead of the final. “I can not answer whether we can win the title. Beating Sudan does not guarantee victory.

We lost two players before the final, but we have replacements and hope our players can make a difference on the pitch. Before the semifinal, we said we must return to Nairobi, and now we will for the final,” he stated.

Entertainment will complement the sporting spectacle, with an after-party featuring musicians from all three host nations. Kenyan artist Savara, Ugandan star Eddy Kenzo, and Tanzanian singer Zuchu have been selected to entertain fans before and after the final.