Sudan and Senegal secured their places in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarter-finals after battling to a tense goalless draw at the Amaan Stadium. The result ensured both teams advanced from Group D, while Nigeria’s hopes were dashed despite a late victory over Congo.
The encounter lived up to its billing as a high-stakes contest, with both sides displaying defensive discipline and flashes of attacking intent. Sudan, buoyed by their emphatic 4-0 triumph over Nigeria in the previous round, entered the game with confidence. Their organisation and quick transitions posed a threat throughout the first half.
Senegal, the reigning champions, were equally determined and created several opportunities of their own. A fierce midfield duel dominated proceedings, with Pape Badji of Senegal and Sudan’s Abdel Raouf Yagoub both testing the goalkeepers. The match’s pivotal moment came just before halftime when Sudan’s strong penalty appeals were waved away by VAR, sparking heated protests on the pitch.
The second half mirrored the first fast-paced, physical, and full of intensity. Both teams pushed for a breakthrough but were unable to find the finishing touch. In stoppage time, Senegal’s Mbaye Yaya Ly received a second yellow card, leaving his side with ten men. However, the dismissal came too late for Sudan to exploit the numerical advantage, and the match ended 0-0.
Elsewhere in Group D, Nigeria recorded a 2-0 win over Congo in their final match, but the result was bittersweet. With earlier defeats already damaging their campaign, the Super Eagles could not climb above Sudan and Senegal, who finished unbeaten.
With the group stage settled, Sudan topped Group D on goal difference and will now face Algeria in the quarter-finals in Zanzibar. Senegal, meanwhile, set up a mouth-watering clash against tournament co-hosts Uganda in Kampala. Both fixtures promise to deliver high drama as the knockout stage begins.
Significantly, all three co-host nations Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda have advanced to the quarter-finals, setting the stage for an East African football festival. The progression of Sudan and Senegal adds even more quality to the tournament, ensuring fans can look forward to electrifying encounters as the road to the CHAN 2024 final intensifies.
