In a breathtaking display of resilience and fortitude, Sudan has reached the semifinals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 after a dramatic penalty shootout against the favored Algerian team, triumphing 4-2 in Zanzibar. The contest, held at the enchanting Amaan Stadium, concluded in a tense 1-1 deadlock after 120 minutes of intense football, setting the stage for an exhilarating semifinal clash with Madagascar.
The Falcons of Jediane exhibited remarkable zen-like composure during the penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja stepping into the limelight as the undeniable hero, executing two incredible saves. Under the strategic guidance of Kwesi Appiah, Sudan has now remained unbeaten in this tournament, solidifying their resurgence on the continental stage.
A Match Filled with Grit and Drama
Both teams entered this high-stakes match with fervent energy and aspirations, reflected in the mutual respect shown by their coaches in the days leading up to the encounter. Algeria’s Madjid Bougherra lauded Sudan’s impressive development under Appiah, while the Ghanaian coach emphasized that his squad intended to seize the initiative rather than sit back.
As the match kicked off, it became a gripping contest, marked by an intense back-and-forth, though the first half ended without a breakthrough. Just moments before halftime, Sudan seemed poised to take the lead, only for Salah Adil’s well-placed effort to be brilliantly thwarted by Algerian keeper Zakaria Bouhalfaya.
The match burst into life early in the second half amidst chaotic scenes. After an initial save from Algerian goalkeeper Bouhalfaya, the ball rebounded off Zimbabwean defender Ayoub Ghezala, who unfortunately diverted it into his own net, granting Sudan a surprising 1-0 lead just three minutes after the break.
Algeria’s Tenacious Response
The Desert Foxes, who boasted an impressive unbeaten streak of ten CHAN matches, showcased their grit as they surged forward with unwavering determination. Their relentless pressure culminated in the 73rd minute when Soufiane Bayazid found the net, pouncing on a scrappy moment in the box to level the score.
From that pivotal moment onward, the match oscillated with tension as both teams exchanged fierce attempts. Mohamed Tia Asad came agonizingly close to scoring for Sudan with a powerful header, while Aimen Mahious forced two spectacular saves from the agile Abooja as the clock ticked down in extra time.
Injuries and substitutions interrupted the rhythm of the game, and as the final whistle blew, both sides were locked at 1-1, prompting the crowd to prepare for the nail-biting spectacle of a penalty shootout.
Abooja Shines as the Hero
As the shootout commenced, the atmosphere was electric. Walieldin Khidir and Mohamed Ahmed Saeed struck their penalties with unwavering confidence for Sudan, while Algeria’s Bayazid and Mahious successfully converted theirs. However, the tide dramatically turned when Mehdi Merghem and Zakaria Draoui each encountered the towering figure of Abooja, who saved both efforts with remarkable agility.
Ultimately, it was Ahmed Tabanja and Mohamed Tia Asad who showed nerves of steel, converting their penalties and sealing Sudan’s triumphant 4-2 victory. The jubilant Sudanese contingent erupted with joy, their cheers resonating against the backdrop of Zanzibar as they celebrated this historic moment.
What This Victory Means What This Victory Means
Sudan’s remarkable win marks their third appearance in the CHAN semifinals, propelling them forward in a tournament where they have already demonstrated their prowess by defeating Nigeria 4-0 and standing firm against the reigning champions Senegal. They are now set to face Madagascar at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, August 26, at 17:30 local time.
In stark contrast, Algeria—the runners-up in 2022—will reflect on their premature exit from the tournament, their impressive unbeaten run coming to an abrupt end in this heart-wrenching fashion. Their quest for the coveted CHAN title continues.
Later that day, another thrilling semifinal awaits as Morocco takes on defending champions Senegal in Kampala, promising an epic showdown between two of Africa’s footballing powerhouses.
