The fairytale runs of co-hosts Kenya and Tanzania at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) came to an end on Friday, as Madagascar and Morocco booked their places in the semi-finals.
Kenya’s heartbreak at Kasarani
Kenya’s debut CHAN campaign ended in dramatic fashion at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, where Madagascar edged the Harambee Stars 4-3 on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw across 120 minutes.
Centre-back Alphonce Omija appeared to have set Kenya on course for history when he headed home Boniface Muchiri’s delivery three minutes into the second half. The stadium erupted, only for VAR to later deny Ryan Ogam what would have been a crucial second goal.
Madagascar clawed back in the 66th minute after Lewis Bandi’s handball gifted Fenohasina Razafimaro a penalty, which he converted calmly.
With extra time producing no further goals, the game was settled by penalties. Kenya matched Madagascar early on, but misses from Mike Kibwage and Omija proved costly. Toky Rakotondraibe converted the decisive spot-kick to seal victory for the Barea.
Despite the loss, Kenya’s campaign brought pride. Under coach Benni McCarthy, the Harambee Stars topped a group that included Morocco and DR Congo, conceding only two goals in five matches. However, a lack of cutting edge in attack proved their undoing.
Madagascar, bronze medallists in 2022, once again showed resilience, with goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa pulling off two crucial saves in the shootout. They now march into the last four, maintaining their reputation as one of Africa’s emerging forces.
Morocco edge Tanzania in Dar es Salaam
In the other quarter-final, Morocco ended co-hosts Tanzania’s dream run with a narrow 1-0 win at a packed Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The Atlas Lions, drawing on their tournament pedigree, found the breakthrough in the 65th minute when Youssef Belammari’s clever assist set up striker Oussama Lamlaoui, who slotted home his third goal of the competition.
Tanzania, unbeaten in the group stage, pressed for an equaliser through Clement Mzize and substitute Nassor Saadun, but Morocco’s defence held firm.
For Morocco, two-time champions, the result marked their seventh straight knockout-stage win since 2014, further cementing their consistency at CHAN. Coach Tarik Sektioui will now prepare his side for a semi-final clash as they chase a third title.
Tanzania, meanwhile, exit with pride after reaching their first-ever quarter-final. Their organised displays, defensive discipline, and passionate home support have raised hopes for the nation’s footballing future.
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