Morocco Edge Senegal on Penalties to Reach CHAN 2024 Final
Morocco booked their spot in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) final after defeating defending champions Senegal 5-3 on penalties, following a tense 1-1 draw after extra time at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium on Tuesday night. The two-time champions, winners in 2018 and 2020, will now face Madagascar in Saturday’s final in Nairobi, after the island nation stunned Sudan to reach their first-ever CHAN final.
Senegal struck first in the 16th minute through Joseph Layousse’s powerful header, but Morocco quickly hit back as Sabir Bougrine unleashed a stunning long-range effort in the 23rd minute to level the tie. Both sides created chances before the break, with Layousse and Anas Bach coming close.
The second half and extra time turned into a tactical battle, with Morocco enjoying more possession while Senegal remained dangerous from set pieces. Goalkeepers El Mehdi Al Harrar and Marc Diouf produced crucial saves to keep the contest alive, with Diouf denying Oussama Lamlaoui’s late header in the 119th minute.
In the shootout, Morocco showed composure as Hrimat, Lamlaoui, Khairi, Bach, and Mehri all converted. Senegal’s captain, Seyni Ndiaye, struck the crossbar with their opening kick, leaving his side to play catch-up despite successful conversions from Vieux Cissé, Baye Cissé, and Daouda Ba.
Morocco advanced 5-3 on penalties, reaching their third CHAN final in six years and denying Senegal a chance at back-to-back titles.
Coach Tarik Sektioui hailed his team’s mentality: “It was a tough match against the defending champions, but the players showed great composure. Now, we want to lift the trophy again.”
Senegal coach Souleymane Diallo encouraged his side despite the setback: “This young generation played with courage. Penalties are cruel, but the future is bright.”
Morocco now prepares for a title showdown with Madagascar at Nairobi’s Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, while Senegal will face Sudan in the third-place playoff in Dar es Salaam.
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