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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, are now one win away from a third continental crown.
They will face tournament surprise package Madagascar in Saturday’s final in Nairobi, after the islanders defeated Sudan earlier in the day.
Senegal strike first, Morocco hit back
Defending champions Senegal drew first blood in the 16th minute when Joseph Layousse rose highest to head home Libasse Guèye’s corner.
But Morocco responded swiftly; just seven minutes later, Sabir Bougrine unleashed a thunderous right-footed strike from distance that rocketed into the top corner, restoring parity and shifting momentum back to the North Africans.
Both sides carved chances before the break — Layousse spurning another header for Senegal, while Morocco’s Anas Bach was denied by goalkeeper Marc Diouf.
Tight second half and extra time
The second half saw Morocco gradually dominate possession, though Senegal remained threatening from set pieces.
Moroccan goalkeeper El Mehdi Al Harrar produced vital stops to keep Layousse and Seyni Ndiaye at bay, while Diouf was equally resolute at the other end, denying Youssef Mehri and Oussama Lamlaoui.
With fatigue setting in, both coaches turned to their benches, Morocco introduced Ayoub Khairi and Salaheddine Errahouli, while Senegal added Insa Boye and Ababacar Sarr.
Extra time provided late drama but no breakthrough. Morocco nearly won it in the 119th minute when Lamlaoui’s header was tipped over, seconds before Senegal’s Bonaventure Fonseca blazed over.
Penalty drama
The shootout proved decisive, Morocco held their nerve, converting all five spot-kicks through Hrimat, Lamlaoui, Khairi, Bach and Mehri.
Senegal’s hopes crumbled when captain Seyni Ndiaye struck the crossbar with their opening effort, although Vieux Cissé, Baye Ciss and Daouda Ba converted, Morocco’s flawless sequence sealed a 5-3 victory.
A clash of philosophies
The semi-final had been billed as a clash between Morocco’s pedigree and Senegal’s youthful energy — and it lived up to expectations.
“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.”
“This is a young generation writing its first chapter. They played with courage and discipline. Penalties are always cruel, but our future remains bright.”
Looking ahead
Morocco will now face Madagascar in Saturday’s final at Nairobi’s Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, aiming to reclaim continental supremacy with a third CHAN crown in six years.
Senegal, meanwhile, will regroup for the third-place playoff against Sudan in Dar es Salaam, their dream of back-to-back titles ended but their youthful side leaving Kampala with dignity and optimism intact.
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