Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – A thrilling African Nations Championship (Chan) semifinal round has set the stage for a historic final between first-time finalists Madagascar and two-time champions Morocco.
Madagascar’s Extra-Time Heroics
In a dramatic semifinal in Dar es Salaam, ten-man Madagascar stunned Sudan with a 1-0 victory in extra time to book their place in their first-ever Chan final. The Barea, who finished third in their only previous appearance, had a solid start, dominating possession in the first half, but the match remained goalless. The momentum shifted dramatically in the 79th minute when Madagascar’s Fenohasina Razafimaro was sent off, reducing his team to ten men. Sudan used their one-man advantage to launch a barrage of attacks, but the resilient Madagascan defense held firm to force the game into extra time. It looked destined for a penalty shootout until substitute Toky Rakotondraibe pounced in the 116th minute, drilling the ball past the Sudanese goalkeeper to seal a memorable victory.
Morocco Edge Past Senegal in Penalty Shootout
In the other semifinal, played at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Morocco edged out defending champions Senegal in a tense penalty shootout, winning 5-3 after the two sides finished 1-1. Senegal drew first blood when defender Joseph Layousse headed home from close range. However, Morocco quickly leveled the score seven minutes later when Sabir Bougrine unleashed a fierce shot from outside the penalty area that flew into the top corner. A straight red card for Morocco’s Marouane Louadni was overturned, and with no further goals in extra time, the match went to penalties. Senegal faltered first, with their captain Seyni N’Diaye striking the crossbar with his opening effort. Morocco, in contrast, converted all five of their penalties to secure their spot in the final.
The Final: A Clash of Experience and Ambition
The final, scheduled for Saturday in Nairobi, will be a clash of two very different teams. Madagascar, the tournament’s underdog story, will face a vastly more experienced Moroccan side, who are looking to secure their third Chan title in seven years.
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