Two proud nations, two contrasting journeys, and one final chance at CHAN 2024 glory.

When Sudan and Senegal walk out at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Friday evening, the stakes will be about more than just a bronze medal. 

For both sides, this match is about redemption, pride, and leaving behind a legacy after weeks of toil in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024.

Sudan’s improbable rise under Kwesi Appiah

Few expected Sudan to reach this far. With the domestic league suspended for more than two years due to conflict at home, Ghanaian coach Kwesi Appiah was tasked with moulding a competitive squad almost from scratch.

With barely three days of preparation, he leaned heavily on players from giants Al-Hilal and Al-Merrikh, and somehow fashioned a team that not only survived, but thrived.

The 4-0 demolition of Nigeria remains one of the tournament’s standout performances, a symbol of Sudan’s resilience and togetherness.

For Appiah, the journey has been about more than football:

“We want to bring smiles to the Sudanese, especially at a time when our country is going through such hardship. This game is very important to us, and we will give everything to win the medal.”

Anchored by the composure of midfielder Abdelraziq, Sudan’s story has been one of courage and collective belief.

Senegal’s youth face their first test of adversity

For Senegal, the path has been very different. Entering as defending champions, expectations were sky-high.

Coach Souleymane Diallo brought a youthful squad inspired by the triumphant class of 2022, and they delivered glimpses of promise — a solid group stage and a commanding win over Zambia.

But their semi-final defeat to Morocco ended the dream of back-to-back titles. Now, the Lions of Teranga must show resilience of their own.

“This game is an opportunity to show character and bring something positive to Senegal. We want to return home with the bronze medal and repay our people’s support,” said Diallo.

With talents like Malick Sembene, the young midfielder tipped to carry the nation’s hopes in years to come, this match is as much about the future as it is about the present.

A tactical rematch with pride on the line

These two sides already know each other well. Their group-stage encounter ended in a goalless stalemate, marked by discipline and caution.

Appiah’s Sudan relied on compact defending to blunt Senegal’s pace, while Diallo’s men tried to break through with quick transitions.

Saturday’s clash promises more intensity and perhaps more risk. Sudan will again turn to the leadership and tactical vision of Abdelraziq, hoping to contain Senegal’s surges. Senegal, meanwhile, may look to exploit fresh legs and energy in wide areas.

“We are more united now than we were in the first game. We have learned a lot throughout the tournament and believe we can put on a great show,” Appiah noted.

Diallo countered with a reminder of football’s unpredictability: “Football is dynamic. A coach can change tactics and surprise. We are ready to respond to any challenge.”

Beyond Kampala: a rivalry renewed

This bronze medal clash carries extra weight because the two nations will soon meet again at senior level.

In many ways, CHAN 2024 is the prelude to a bigger chapter in a growing rivalry.

Yet for now, the Mandela National Stadium will host a duel defined not by future ambition, but by immediate pride.

Sudan want to give their people joy in dark times. Senegal want to prove their next generation has the character to handle pressure.

The time for regrets has passed. Only honour remains.

-Cafonline

Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H

Kenya winger Boniface Muchiri has been rewarded with a promotion in his military career with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) following his outstanding performances during the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

Muchiri, who also captains Ulinzi Stars, the KDF’s Kenyan Premier League side, has risen from the rank of Senior Private to Corporal, a significant leap that reflects both his service on the pitch and his dedication to the military.

The winger featured prominently for the Harambee Stars as they reached the quarter-finals of the competition designed for home-based players.

Muchiri was instrumental in the Harambee Stars’ impressive maiden campaign, registering two key assists and playing a vital role in Kenya’s spirited run.

The new rank was conferred at the Defence Headquarters in Nairobi on Wednesday by the General Officer Commanding Eastern Command, Major General Luka Kutto. 

The ceremony was presided over by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri, who expressed immense pride in Muchiri’s achievements.

Boniface Muchiri in action during the quarterfinal duel with Morocco.

“We are very grateful for your commitment, hard work and excellent performance while serving Kenya and, by extension, the KDF. We wish you success in your future assignments and are confident you will continue to excel,” said the CDF.

Muchiri’s promotion came after Harambee Stars skipper Aboud Omar made a special request to Commander-in-Chief President William Ruto when he visited the team’s training camp before the start of the tournament, asking that Muchiri’s service to both football and the military be recognized.

Omar repeated the plea after Kenya’s memorable victory over two-time winners Morocco, and the request has now been duly granted.

 For Muchiri, the recognition is both humbling and motivating.

“It is a massive honour to be received this way by my employer, the Kenya Defence Forces. It feels great to be appreciated like this, and it shows that whatever you do is valued,” Muchiri told CAFOnline. 

“The support from the KDF in nurturing talent has been immense, and I am proud to be an example that if you perform, good things will follow.

He added: “I have managed to be where I am because of the values instilled in me at the KDF. Discipline and hard work are the foundation of the army, and anyone who observes them will always walk with favour by their side.”

Muchiri joined the KDF in late 2021 after leaving Tusker FC, and in just three years has not only cemented his place as a key figure in the national team but also earned swift progression within the military ranks.

His promotion now serves as a powerful morale boost to all sportsmen and women serving in the KDF, reaffirming the military’s commitment to supporting sporting excellence.

-Cafonline

Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H

Morocco are through to the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 after defeating holders Senegal 5-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Tuesday night.

The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, kept their composure in the shootout to book a third CHAN final appearance in six years.

They will now face debut finalists Madagascar on Saturday in Nairobi, after the islanders beat Sudan earlier in the day.

Senegal had drawn first blood in the 16th minute through Joseph Layousse, who rose highest to head home Libasse Guèye’s corner.

Morocco responded swiftly seven minutes later when Sabir Bougrine unleashed a powerful long-range strike that flew into the top corner to make it 1-1.

Both sides had chances to edge ahead before the break — Layousse missed another close-range header, while Moroccan forward Anas Bach was denied by goalkeeper Marc Diouf.

The second half and extra time saw a few clear openings, with Morocco enjoying more possession but Senegal threatening on set pieces.

Goalkeeper El Mehdi Al Harrar kept Morocco in contention with fine saves from Layousse and Seyni Ndiaye, while Diouf was equally sharp to frustrate Youssef Mehri and Oussama Lamlaoui.

With neither team able to find a breakthrough in 120 minutes, penalties decided the contest. Morocco were flawless from the spot, with Hrimat, Lamlaoui, Khairi, Bach, and Mehri all converting.

Senegal’s hopes dimmed when captain Seyni Ndiaye struck the crossbar with their opening kick. Although Vieux Cissé, Baye Ciss, and Daouda Ba scored, it was not enough to deny Morocco a 5-3 victory.

“It was a tough match against the defending champions, but the players showed composure in the key moments,” Morocco coach Tarik Sektioui said afterwards. “Now we want to win the trophy again.”

Senegal coach Souleymane Diallo, while disappointed, praised his side’s spirit: “This is a young generation writing its first chapter. Penalties are always cruel, but our future remains bright.”

Morocco will now face Madagascar in Saturday’s final at Nairobi’s Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, while Senegal head to Dar es Salaam for Friday’s third-place playoff against Sudan.

Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H