Both nations punched their tickets after hard-fought victories against Tanzania and Kenya.

Morocco and Madagascar have secured their spots in the semi-finals of CHAN 2024 this Friday, August 22. The Atlas Lions defeated Tanzania in Dar es Salaam, while the Barea knocked out Kenya in a penalty shootout in Nairobi.

The first two semi-finalists of the 8th edition of the African Nations Championship are now known. The opening quarter-final clashes pitted Morocco against Tanzania and Kenya against Madagascar.

Morocco ended Tanzania’s fairytale run with a 1-0 victory at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam. Oussama Lamlaoui netted the only goal of the match in the 65th minute, finishing off a decisive pass from Youssef Belammari. The Taifa Stars put in a spirited performance in front of their home crowd. Clement Mzize and Feisal Salum created several dangerous chances, but were repeatedly denied by the outstanding El Mehdi Al Harrar in the Moroccan goal. Hamad Suleiman’s teammates also benefited from a rock-solid defense, having conceded just two goals in five tournament matches.

This victory sees Morocco reach the CHAN semi-finals for the third time in their history. The 2018 and 2020 champions continue to underline their credentials as serious title contenders, now boasting seven straight knockout-stage wins since 2014.

At Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium, Madagascar pulled off a shock by eliminating the hosts Kenya in a dramatic penalty shootout. After regulation time and extra time ended 1-1, the Barea prevailed 4-3 on penalties. Alphonce Omija opened the scoring for Kenya in the 48th minute, heading home a corner from Boniface Muchiri. The Harambee Stars thought they had doubled their lead through Ryan Ogam, but VAR disallowed the goal for an earlier foul.Madagascar leveled in the 66th minute thanks to Fenohasina Razafimaro from the penalty spot, after Lewis Bandi handled the ball in the box. Omija, who had scored in the first half, missed the decisive penalty, allowing Toky Rakotondraibe to send Madagascar through.