The African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 has reached a decisive stage, with six countries already booking their places in the quarter-finals. Hosts Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda have made history by progressing together, while Morocco, Algeria, and Madagascar have also secured passage to the knockout rounds.
Kenya — A Dream Debut For The Hosts
Kenya, playing in their first-ever CHAN tournament, have defied expectations by finishing top of Group A with 10 points. The Harambee Stars stunned seasoned sides, beating DR Congo and Morocco 1–0 apiece, before sealing their group with a narrow 1–0 victory over Zambia. Their only slip came in a 1–1 draw with Angola. Conceding just once in the group stage, Kenya look well-drilled and resilient. They will face Madagascar in the quarter-finals at Kasarani on Friday, August 22.
Tanzania — Relentless And Compact
Group B belonged to Tanzania, who finished unbeaten with 10 points. The Taifa Stars showcased strong organization, conceding only a single goal across four matches. Even a final-day 0–0 draw against the Central African Republic could not dent their momentum. With the Dar es Salaam crowd behind them, Tanzania are set for a high-profile quarter-final showdown against Morocco under the lights at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
Uganda — Nerves And History In Kampala
Uganda’s path to the quarter-finals was dramatic and emotional. Facing South Africa in their final Group C game, the Cranes fought back from 3–1 down to earn a 3–3 draw, thanks to two late penalties including one deep into stoppage time. That result pushed them to seven points, enough to top the group for the first time in their CHAN history. Uganda will now face the runners-up of Group D at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, aiming to extend their fairytale run.
Algeria — Efficiency Over Flair
Algeria had to dig deep to qualify, edging through as Group C runners-up on six points. A tense goalless draw with Niger on the final day proved just enough to see them advance on goal difference, ahead of South Africa. Though not yet at their sparkling best, Algeria’s tournament know-how makes them a dangerous knockout opponent. They will face the winners of Group D in Zanzibar’s Amaan Stadium.
Morocco — Champions Show Their Edge
Two-time CHAN champions Morocco once again proved their pedigree. After slipping to second place behind Kenya in Group A, the Atlas Lions sealed qualification with a commanding 3–1 victory over DR Congo. With nine points from four games, Morocco have shown attacking flair and tournament maturity, setting up a heavyweight clash with hosts Tanzania in Dar es Salaam.
Madagascar — The Island Nation Rising
Madagascar’s story has been one of resilience and determination. The Barea clinched second place in Group B with seven points, edging out Mauritania on goal difference after a decisive 2–1 win over Burkina Faso. Their reward is a quarter-final clash against Kenya in Nairobi, a fixture that promises both excitement and unpredictability.
Quarter-Final Fixtures Confirmed
The stage is set for a thrilling knockout phase. Kenya will face Madagascar in Nairobi, Tanzania battle Morocco in Dar es Salaam, Algeria take on the Group D winners in Zanzibar, while Uganda host the Group D runners-up in Kampala. With the co-hosts thriving and traditional heavyweights still in the mix, CHAN 2024 promises a quarter-final round rich with drama, passion, and history in the making.
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