The stage is set for an enthralling conclusion to the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as defending champions Morocco booked their place in the final to face surprise package Madagascar.
Both sides came through tense semi-final encounters on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, setting up a mouthwatering clash at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi on Saturday, August 30.
Morocco, winners of the 2018 and 2020 editions, overcame a spirited Senegal side 5-3 on penalties after the two teams had battled to a 1-1 draw in 120 minutes of football at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.
The Atlas Lions, widely regarded as tournament favorites, demonstrated composure from the spot, converting all five of their penalties, while Senegal faltered when Senyi Ndiaye missed their opening kick.
The match had lived up to its billing as a clash of African heavyweights. Senegal drew first blood in the 16th minute when Layousse Samb rose highest to nod home a precise corner delivery from Libasse Gueye.
But Morocco responded swiftly, leveling just seven minutes later through a thunderous volley from Sabir Bougrine, who pounced on a loose clearance outside the box to bring his side back into contention.
Both teams had chances to tilt the game in their favor. Moussa Cisse almost restored Senegal’s lead with a long-range strike that was brilliantly tipped over by Moroccan goalkeeper El Mehdi Al Harrar.
On the other end, Youssef Mehri’s powerful header looked destined for the net until Marc Diouf produced a stunning save for Senegal. After a tense extra-time period, neither side could find the winner, leaving the outcome to be settled by the lottery of penalties.
Meanwhile, in the day’s earlier semi-final, tournament debutants Madagascar made history by reaching their first-ever CHAN final.
The island nation edged Sudan 1-0 in a dramatic extra-time contest, thanks to a decisive strike from Rakotondraibe just four minutes from time. Despite being reduced to ten men with 11 minutes left, Madagascar held their nerve to secure a famous victory that sparked jubilant celebrations.
For the Barea, this is a fairytale run that has stunned many observers. Once regarded as outsiders, they now stand on the cusp of continental glory, proving that discipline, resilience, and self-belief can triumph over pedigree.
The upcoming final in Nairobi will not only crown the new champion but will also pit contrasting narratives against each other. Morocco’s quest to make history with a record third CHAN title and Madagascar’s dream of completing one of the most remarkable underdog stories in African football.
Before the grand finale, Senegal and Sudan will battle for third place on August 29, also in Nairobi. But all eyes will be on August 30, when Morocco and Madagascar meet under the floodlights in what promises to be an unforgettable encounter.
With Morocco’s experience and Madagascar’s determination, the final is poised to deliver high drama and could well be remembered as one of the most compelling chapters in CHAN history.
