Ten-man Madagascar secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Sudan in extra time, booking their place in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) final for the very first time.
Playing in Dar es Salaam, Madagascar had a dominant start, controlling possession and creating early chances. However, the first half ended goalless. The match appeared to turn against them in the 79th minute when Fenohasina Razafimaro, who had been a hero in the quarter-final, was sent off. Despite the one-man advantage, Sudan, making their third semi-final appearance, couldn’t find a breakthrough, and the match headed into extra time.
The game seemed destined for penalties until substitute Toky Rakotondraibe scored a stunning goal in the 116th minute, drilling the ball past the Sudanese goalkeeper and sending his team to the final.
“Our strength lies in unity,” said Madagascar coach Romuald Rakotondrabe. “The players kept believing until the very end, and this victory belongs to them and to Madagascar.”
Morocco Edges Senegal in Penalty Shootout
In the other semi-final, Morocco defeated defending champions Senegal 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Kampala. This victory sends the vastly more experienced Moroccans to their third CHAN final.
Senegal drew first blood when Joseph Layousse headed in from a corner. However, seven minutes later, Morocco equalized with a powerful strike from Sabir Bougrine, who netted his second goal of the tournament. The match remained deadlocked through extra time, leading to a penalty shootout.
Morocco was flawless, converting all five of their penalties, while Senegal’s captain Seyni N’Diaye hit the crossbar with his opening shot, sealing their fate.
“It was a tough match against the defending champions but the players showed composure in the key moments,” said Morocco coach Tarik Sektioui. “We have fought hard to reach this stage, and now we want to win the trophy again.”
The final will be held on Saturday in Nairobi, where Madagascar will face Morocco in what promises to be an exciting clash between the tournament newcomers and the seasoned champions.