CHAN 2024: Senegal, Sudan Complete Semifinal Lineup
The TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 has reached its semifinal stage, with defending champions Senegal set to clash with two-time winners Morocco, while surprise package Sudan faces Madagascar. The final four lineup was confirmed after an exhilarating quarterfinal weekend that saw all three co-hosts—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—eliminated despite passionate home support.
Heavyweight Clash: Senegal vs. Morocco
Senegal solidified their title credentials with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Uganda in front of over 35,000 fans at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. The Lions of Teranga were pushed to their limits by a spirited Ugandan side but found the breakthrough in the 62nd minute through Oumar Ba. Despite Uganda enjoying more possession and creating several chances, they were unable to find the finishing touch, thanks to Senegal’s solid defensive organization led by goalkeeper Marc Diouf.
This victory sets the stage for an exciting semifinal against Morocco, who edged past co-hosts Tanzania with a similar 1-0 scoreline. Oussama Lamlaoui scored the only goal of the match, tucking in his fourth of the tournament after a clever assist from Youssef Belammari. Despite missing key defenders, Morocco displayed composure and tactical discipline, extending their remarkable knockout-stage record to seven consecutive CHAN elimination match victories since 2014.
Sudan and Madagascar: Underdogs on the Rise
While Senegal and Morocco represent the tournament’s elite, Sudan continues to capture hearts with their remarkable journey. The Falcons of Jediane stunned 2022 finalists Algeria by winning a penalty shootout after a tense 1-1 draw in Zanzibar. An own goal by Algeria’s Ayoub Ghezala gave Sudan the lead, but Soufiane Bayazid equalized. In the shootout, goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja emerged as the hero, saving two penalties to secure a 4-2 victory.
Sudan’s coach, Kwesi Appiah, expressed confidence in his players, stating they “will not stop here” as they aim for their first CHAN final. They will face Madagascar, who also pulled off a stunning upset by knocking out debutants Kenya on penalties. After a 1-1 draw, Madagascar triumphed 4-3 in the shootout, with goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa making crucial saves and Toky Rakotondraibe converting the winning kick.
Hosts Exit but Leave a Mark
The quarterfinals were a painful end for the three host nations, each generating significant excitement throughout the tournament. Kenya’s debut ended in heartbreak, Tanzania’s fairytale was halted by Morocco, and Uganda’s breakthrough was dashed by Senegal. Despite their exits, all three teams provided thrilling matches that captivated fans across the continent.
As the semifinals approach, they promise two fascinating contrasts: a heavyweight duel between past champions and a battle of surprise packages eager to continue their fairytales.
Semifinal Fixtures (Tuesday, 26 August 2025)
– 5:30 PM: Madagascar vs. Sudan — Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam
– 8:30 PM: Morocco vs. Senegal — Mandela National Stadium, Kampala
The winners will advance to the final on Saturday, 30 August, in what is shaping up to be one of the most memorable editions of CHAN in the competition’s history.
