CHAN 2024: Senegal edge Sudan on penalties to claim third place

KAMPALA — Defending champions Senegal clinched third place at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 after overcoming Sudan 4-2 on penalties, following a tense 1-1 draw at Mandela National Stadium on Friday night.

The Lions of Teranga, denied a chance to retain their crown after a semi-final shootout defeat to Morocco, showed resilience once again in the bronze medal match to secure back-to-back podium finishes. For Sudan, the wait for a third CHAN medal continues despite a spirited campaign.

In front of a lively Kampala crowd, Sudan made the brighter start and took the lead in the 6th minute when Mohamed Tia Asad rose to head home from Abdel Raouf Yagoub’s corner.

The Falcons of Jediane defended their advantage resolutely through the first half, with goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja pulling off key saves to frustrate Senegal.

After the break, however, the holders grew stronger. Their persistence paid off in the 58th minute when Seyni Ndiaye’s header, set up by Ousseynou Seck, drew them level. Senegal dominated possession thereafter, but Sudan’s counterattacks and Abooja’s heroics ensured the score remained tied.

With no extra-time in the third-place play-off, the game went straight to penalties. Sudan faltered first as Walieldin Khdir missed their opening kick, and Musab Makeen later saw his effort saved by goalkeeper Marc Diouf.

Senegal, in contrast, were flawless from the spot, with Joseph Layousse, Issa Kane, Vieux Cissé and Libasse Guèye all converting to seal a 4-2 shootout victory.

Though bronze was not the prize they had hoped for, coach Souleymane Diallo hailed his side’s response after the semi-final setback.

“This was about character,” Diallo said. “The players showed maturity after the disappointment of the semi-final. We wanted to finish with something, and we did that.”

The result also extended Senegal’s unbeaten run in open play at CHAN to 10 matches, a reflection of their depth and consistency.

For Sudan, led by Ghanaian coach Kwesi Appiah, the loss was heartbreaking but their journey, reaching the last four despite conflict disrupting their domestic league—won plaudits across the continent.

“We came very far with limited preparation. I am proud of how the team fought. Sudanese football has shown it still has heart,” Appiah said.

As Senegal celebrate bronze and Sudan bow out with pride, attention now shifts to Nairobi, where Morocco and Madagascar will battle for the CHAN 2024 crown on Saturday at Moi International Sports Centre.