Morocco are through to the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 final after edging out holders Senegal 5-3 on penalties, following a tense 1-1 draw after extra-time at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Tuesday night.
The Atlas Lions kept their nerve from the spot, converting all five penalties with calm precision. Senegal’s hopes unravelled when captain Seyni Ndiaye smashed their opening kick against the crossbar, forcing his side to chase from the outset.
The victory sends Morocco into their third CHAN final in six years, while dashing Senegal’s dream of back-to-back titles. The North Africans, champions in 2018 and 2020, now eye a historic third crown when they face Madagascar in Saturday’s final in Nairobi.
Coach Tarik Sektioui praised his team’s resilience: “It was a tough match against the defending champions, but the players showed composure in the key moments. We have fought hard to reach this stage, and now we want to win the trophy again.”
Senegal boss Souleymane Diallo remained defiant, saying his youthful side had shown courage despite the cruel ending: “This is a young generation writing its first chapter. Penalties are always cruel, but our future remains bright.”
Senegal will now take on Sudan in Dar es Salaam for third place, while Morocco’s focus turns to reclaiming continental supremacy.
