Morocco reached the final of the CHAN 2024
By Kimberly Kalusi
Morocco kept their cool from the spot to eliminate holders Senegal 5-3 on penalties and book a place in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) final. The Atlas Lions, who lifted the trophy in 2018 and 2020, will now take on tournament dark horses Madagascar in Saturday’s decider at Nairobi’s Moi Sports Centre Kasarani.
The defending champions looked the sharper side early on and were rewarded in the 16th minute when Joseph Layousse rose above the Moroccan defence to head home from a Libasse Guèye corner.
But Morocco, with their experience and composure, needed just seven minutes to restore parity. Sabir Bougrine’s thunderous strike from distance flew past goalkeeper Marc Diouf to make it 1-1, igniting an end-to-end contest.
Both sides had openings before the break, with Layousse squandering another header and Morocco’s Anas Bach forcing a superb save from Diouf.
The second half was tight and tactical, with Morocco enjoying more possession but Senegal threatening from set pieces.
Moroccan goalkeeper El Mehdi Al Harrar produced key saves to deny Layousse and Seyni Ndiaye, while Diouf stood firm against Youssef Mehri and Oussama Lamlaoui at the other end.
In extra time, fatigue took its toll, but the game still produced chances. Lamlaoui’s late header was tipped over by Diouf, moments after Bonaventure Fonseca blazed over for Senegal.
With no breakthrough after 120 minutes, the match was settled from 12 yards. Morocco were flawless, converting all five penalties through Hrimat, Lamlaoui, Khairi, Bach, and Mehri.
Senegal’s captain Seyni Ndiaye rattled the crossbar with the opening kick, handing Morocco the advantage they never surrendered. Though Vieux Cissé, Baye Ciss, and Daouda Ba converted, it wasn’t enough as Morocco’s perfect record sealed their passage to the final.
The semi-final showcased Morocco’s pedigree against Senegal’s youthful promise. While the Atlas Lions drew on experience and resilience, Senegal’s spirited display hinted at a bright future for their emerging generation.
Morocco’s coach Tarik Sektioui praised his squad’s mentality, “It was a tough game against the champions, but the players kept their nerve when it mattered most. We’ve worked hard to reach the final, and our goal is to win the trophy again.”
Senegal coach Souleymane Diallo struck a hopeful tone despite the loss:“This team is young and learning. They showed courage, and while penalties are cruel, I believe this group will achieve great things in the years ahead.”
Morocco will aim for a record-equalling third CHAN crown when they face Madagascar in Nairobi, while Senegal must regroup for the third-place playoff against Sudan in Dar es Salaam.
For the Atlas Lions, Saturday is a chance to underline their dominance. For Senegal, it is a painful end but one filled with optimism for the road ahead.
