Morocco booked their place in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) final after defeating defending champions Senegal 5–3 on penalties in a tense semi-final clash on Tuesday night at the Mandela National Stadium, Kampala.

The match ended 1–1 after extra time. Senegal struck first in the 16th minute through Libasse Gueye, but Morocco responded just seven minutes later when Saïd Bougrine fired home the equaliser.

Both sides created openings in regulation and extra time but could not find a winner, forcing the tie into a shootout. Morocco held their nerve, with Hrimat, Lamliloui, Khairi, Bach, and Mehri all converting from the spot. Senegal’s hopes were dashed after goalkeeper Seyni Ndiaye missed their opening penalty, leaving successful efforts from Cissé, Ciss, and Ba insufficient.

The result leaves Morocco just one step away from securing a record third CHAN crown, having previously triumphed in 2018 (4–0 vs Nigeria) and 2020 (2–0 vs Mali).

Their opponents in the final will be Madagascar, who reached their first-ever CHAN final earlier in the day with a dramatic 1–0 extra-time win over Sudan at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam. Substitute Toky Rakotondraibe struck in the 116th minute, sparking wild celebrations among Malagasy fans.

For Sudan, it was heartbreak after a spirited run, with goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja producing heroics throughout the tournament but unable to inspire his side into the final.

The CHAN 2024 final will be played on Saturday at Moi Sports Centre Kasarani in Nairobi, where Morocco will aim to etch their name in history as the most successful team in the competition’s history.