Morocco’s team has booked a spot in the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) after beating Senegal in a dramatic penalty shootout, 5-3, following a 1-1 draw in regular time and extra time. The semi-final took place Tuesday evening at Mandela Stadium in Kampala.
Senegal took the lead early with a goal from Joseph Layousse in the 16th minute, but Morocco hit back just seven minutes later through Sabir Bougrine to level things up.
The Atlas Lions, winners in 2018 and 2020, will now face Madagascar in Saturday’s final in Nairobi, after the island nation beat Sudan earlier in the day.
The Atlas Lions have thus booked their third CHAN final appearance in six years and ended Senegal’s dream of back-to-back titles.
Morocco’s Coach Tarik Sektioui hailed his side’s mentality: “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.”
Senegal boss Souleymane Diallo, meanwhile, expressed pride despite the defeat: “This is a young generation writing its first chapter. They played with courage and discipline. Penalties are always cruel, but our future remains bright.”
For Morocco, it is a chance to reclaim continental dominance and join the record books with a third CHAN title. For Senegal, the dream of defending their crown may have ended, but their youthful side left Kampala with dignity intact and optimism for the future.