CHAN 2024: Late Goals And Tactical Mastery Define Group B As Mauritania and Madagascar Shine
The TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 saw thrilling action as Madagascar and Mauritania secured crucial victories in their respective matches, keeping their hopes of advancing in the tournament alive.
Madagascar Break CAR Resistance with Late Double
Madagascar earned a vital 2-0 victory over the Central African Republic (CAR), thanks to two late goals from substitutes Toky Rakotondraibe and Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa. This match, played at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium, was critical for both teams as they sought redemption after disappointing starts in the tournament.
The first half was tightly contested but lacked scoring quality, with CAR aiming for their first points while Madagascar struggled to convert possession into clear chances. Both teams had opportunities but were unable to capitalize, resulting in a goalless first half filled with missed chances.
The game shifted in the second half when Madagascar, after making four substitutions at halftime, gained momentum. Despite CAR’s initial threat, it was Madagascar who broke the deadlock in the 84th minute. Rakotondraibe capitalized on a blocked effort to score from close range.
As CAR pushed for an equalizer in stoppage time, Madagascar countered swiftly, with Rakotondraibe assisting Rafanomezantsoa for the second goal, sealing a 2-0 victory. This win lifted Madagascar to second place in Group B, while CAR faced elimination, ending their hopes for the tournament.
Mauritania Edges Past Burkina Faso in Tense Encounter
In another gripping encounter on the same day, Mauritania triumphed 1-0 over 10-man Burkina Faso. The match, marked by high stakes and a VAR-induced red card, was pivotal for Mauritania, who secured their position in the tournament with a disciplined performance.
The decisive moment came in first-half stoppage time when El Mami Tetah won a penalty after being fouled in the box. Alassane Diop converted the spot-kick, placing Mauritania ahead just before the break. The first half had already seen Burkina Faso’s Abdoulaye Touré dismissed for violent conduct after a VAR check, leaving the Stallions with ten men.
Despite being a man down, Burkina Faso fought valiantly, hitting the post and creating late chances but could not find the equalizer. Mauritania’s defense held firm, showcasing tactical discipline and resilience to secure the win.
The victory propelled Mauritania to seven points in Group B, solidifying their place in contention for advancement. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso’s elimination was confirmed as they were left stranded at three points, unable to catch the top two teams.
Implications for Group B
With Madagascar’s victory and Mauritania’s success, the dynamics of Group B shifted significantly. Madagascar climbed to second place with four points, while Mauritania holds second place with seven points, just behind the group leaders, Tanzania. Burkina Faso’s exit marked a disappointing end to their campaign, having failed to secure a win.
