Morocco advanced to the final of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after edging Senegal 5-3 on penalties, following a 1-1 draw after extra time.
The two-time CHAN champions kept their hopes of a third title alive in the tournament reserved for locally-based players. They will face Madagascar in the final at Kasarani Stadium on August 30.
Senegal opened the scoring in the 16th minute when Joseph Layousse headed in from a Libasse Gueye corner, beating Moroccan keeper Elmehdi Al Harrar. But Morocco responded just seven minutes later through a stunning strike from Sabir Bougrine, leveling the score at 1-1.
Earlier, Morocco came close in the 12th minute when Youssef Belammari failed to control a through ball from midfield. At the other end, Gueye won a free kick for Senegal, but Christian Gomis sent his effort over the bar.
In the penalty shootout, Morocco were flawless. Mohamed Hrimat, Oussama Lamlioui, Ayoub Khairi, Anas Bach, and Youssef Mehri all converted their spot-kicks. Senegal’s Seyni Mbaye Ndiaye missed the opening penalty, which proved costly.
With the victory, Morocco are now just one win away from clinching a historic third CHAN title.
