CHAN 2024: Tanzania and Madagascar Advance to Quarter-Finals
In a dramatic conclusion to Group B of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024, Tanzania and Madagascar secured their spots in the quarter-finals. Despite a goalless draw against the Central African Republic (CAR), Tanzania finished at the top of the group, while Madagascar clinched the runner-up position with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Burkina Faso.
Tanzania Tops Group B with Draw Against CAR
Tanzania entered the match against CAR already assured of a place in the knockout stage, having won their first three group matches. The Taifa Stars dominated possession and created several scoring opportunities but were unable to convert, ultimately settling for a frustrating goalless draw at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Feisal Salum, the team’s creative heartbeat, came close multiple times, but his efforts either went wide or were thwarted by a resolute CAR defense. Substitute Iddy Nado also missed a promising free-kick late in the match. Goalkeeper Yakoub Suleiman made crucial saves to maintain the draw, particularly against Dimitri Kogbeto in the closing minutes.
Despite failing to score for the first time in the tournament, Tanzania’s unbeaten campaign saw them finish with 10 points from four matches, including five goals scored and only one conceded. Coach Hamad Suleiman celebrated this accomplishment, calling it a moment of “writing history” for Tanzanian football.
Madagascar Edges Burkina Faso to Secure Quarter-Final Spot
In the other crucial match, Madagascar faced Burkina Faso in Zanzibar, knowing that only a victory would suffice to advance. The Barea struck first with a stunning long-range goal from Fenohasina Razafimaro in the seventh minute. However, Burkina Faso quickly responded, with Souleymane Sangaré heading home an equalizer in the 25th minute.
The match remained evenly poised until the 58th minute when Madagascar was awarded a penalty following a foul by Sagne. Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa converted the spot-kick, firing high into the top corner and restoring Madagascar’s lead.
Burkina Faso fought valiantly in search of another equalizer, with substitute Papus Ouattara and striker Yves Koutiama forcing sharp saves from Madagascar’s goalkeeper, Michel Ramandimbisoa. Despite their late pressure, the Stallions could not find a way through the resilient Malagasy defense.
Madagascar’s victory secured them second place in Group B with seven points, edging out Mauritania on goal difference. This marked a significant turnaround for Madagascar, who had faced challenges in the group stage but managed to progress to the knockout rounds with determination and spirit.
Quarter-Final Matchups Ahead
With the group stage concluded, Tanzania will prepare for a potentially favorable quarter-final tie against one of the runners-up from another group. Meanwhile, Madagascar will look to build on their resilience as they face a daunting challenge in the knockout stage.
