CHAN 2024: Tanzania Advance to Quarter Finals; Mauritania Revive Campaign With Win Over C.A.R
As the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) enters its decisive stages, Tanzania and Mauritania have emerged as standout performers in Group B. Both teams showcased their skills and determination in crucial matches, securing vital wins that could shape their paths in the tournament.
Mzize’s Brace Leads Tanzania Past Madagascar
In a historic performance, Tanzania secured their spot in the quarter-finals of CHAN for the first time, defeating Madagascar 2-1. Clement Mzize was the standout player, scoring both goals in the first 20 minutes at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Saturday.
Mzize opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a sharp finish before doubling the lead just seven minutes later, capitalizing on a set-piece. Although Madagascar’s Nantenaina Razafimahatana halved the deficit in the 34th minute, Tanzania displayed resilience, managing to maintain their lead despite a barrage of pressure in the second half.
The Taifa Stars finished Group B with a perfect nine points, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive organization, which will make them a formidable opponent in the knockout stages.
El Moctar’s Early Strike Propels Mauritania Over Central African Republic
In another pivotal match, Mauritania breathed new life into their CHAN campaign with a disciplined 1-0 victory over the Central African Republic (CAR). Ahmed El Moctar secured the win with a goal just nine minutes into the match, turning in a cross from Abdallahi Mahmoud.
Mauritania’s victory marked their first goal of the tournament and only their second win in CHAN history. Despite CAR’s spirited attempts to equalize, including a series of corners and shots on target, Mauritania’s goalkeeper Abderrahmane Sarr delivered a remarkable performance, making crucial saves to keep the clean sheet.
With this win, Mauritania positioned themselves well for a possible quarter-final berth, while CAR’s hopes now hinge on their final match, needing a win to stay in contention.
Group B Implications and Next Steps
Tanzania’s triumph solidifies their status as Group B winners, while Mauritania’s victory has set the stage for a tense final matchday. Madagascar and CAR now face an uphill battle, with Madagascar needing a win against Burkina Faso and hoping for favorable results elsewhere to advance.
