CHAN 2024: Morocco Beat Senegal on Penalties to Set Up Final Clash With Madagascar
Morocco have booked a place in the final of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after surviving a stern test from holders Senegal, sealing victory 5-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra-time at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.
The Atlas Lions, crowned champions in 2018 and 2020, will now chase a record-extending third title when they meet tournament dark horses Madagascar in Saturday’s final in Nairobi.
Senegal Strike First, Morocco Respond
It was the defending champions who landed the first blow. Joseph Layousse, a constant menace in the air, powered home a header in the 16th minute from Libasse Guèye’s corner to put Senegal ahead.
Morocco wasted little time in responding. Just seven minutes later, Sabir Bougrine unleashed a thunderbolt from distance that whistled past goalkeeper Marc Diouf and into the top corner, restoring parity and igniting a contest that quickly grew tense and physical.
Chances fell to both sides before the break — Layousse again went close for Senegal while Anas Bach was denied by Diouf at the other end — but the 1-1 scoreline held.
Nerve-Racking Finish
The second half saw Morocco dictate possession, yet Senegal remained dangerous on set pieces.
Goalkeeper El Mehdi Al Harrar produced crucial saves to frustrate Layousse and Seyni Ndiaye, while Morocco’s Lamlaoui forced Diouf into a fingertip stop late in extra time.
Neither side could find a winner in open play, and the match headed for penalties.
Perfect Morocco punish Senegal on Penalties
In the shootout, Morocco were flawless, converting all five of their kicks through Hrimat, Lamlaoui, Khairi, Bach, and Mehri.
Senegal’s undoing came immediately when captain Seyni Ndiaye rattled the crossbar with their first attempt. Though Vieux Cissé, Baye Ciss, and Daouda Ba scored, the damage had been done.
Morocco triumphed 5-3, booking their third final in six years and crushing Senegal’s hopes of back-to-back CHAN titles.
Coaches React
Morocco coach Tarik Sektioui praised his side’s composure under pressure:
This was a tough opponent, but we stayed focused and showed character when it mattered most. Now, we want to finish the job in the final.”
Senegal boss Souleymane Diallo struck a reflective tone:
“We came with a young squad and they gave everything. Penalties are harsh, but this team has a bright future.”
The Road Ahead
The Atlas Lions now shift their focus to Madagascar, the surprise package of the tournament, in what promises to be a fascinating final in Nairobi. Senegal, meanwhile, will battle Sudan in Dar es Salaam for a third-place finish.
For Morocco, the dream of a third CHAN crown remains alive. For Senegal, their title defence may be over, but their young talents left Uganda with pride intact and valuable lessons learned.