Sudan, Senegal Look For Consolation Prize As CHAN Semi-Final Losers Collide in Kampala Battle

The East Africans will be aiming to bounce back, as both teams fight for pride and podium finish in Kampala.

The 2024 African Nations Championship comes to a close this weekend with Sudan and Senegal contesting the bronze medal match in Kampala.

Both sides had dreams of lifting the trophy, but heartbreaking semifinal exits mean they will now settle for a podium finish instead.

The Mandela National Stadium is set to host a battle of pride, redemption, and a final chance to leave the tournament on a high.

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Preview

Sudan’s semifinal clash against Madagascar was a test of patience and endurance, one they ultimately failed in agonizing fashion.

After holding their opponents scoreless for 116 minutes, they conceded deep into extra time and fell 1-0.

Despite registering 15 shots and sharing possession equally, their lack of composure in the final third cost them dearly.

The Falcons of Jediane will need to sharpen their attack and avoid repeating the same mistakes, particularly with finishing and ball retention.

Historically, Sudan have thrived in bronze medal contests, winning both their previous third-place playoffs in 2011 and 2018. That pedigree, coupled with their gritty resilience, gives them hope of ending this tournament with silverware.

Senegal, meanwhile, were left devastated by Morocco in the other semifinal.

A tense encounter finished 1-1 after extra time before the defending champions lost 5-3 on penalties. The Lions of Teranga struggled with just 31 percent of the ball and were punished by Morocco’s clever use of space.

Senegal coach Papa Thiaw’s decision to deploy a narrow diamond midfield drew criticism, as it left too many gaps for Morocco to exploit.

Still, Senegal have not lost a CHAN game in open play across their last nine outings, and that consistency could prove vital in Kampala.

Team News

Sudan arrive with no major injury concerns, giving coach Stéfane Constantine a full squad to choose from.

Goalkeeper Abooja will marshal the defense, while midfielders Khidir and Al-Rasheed are expected to provide balance and industry. Up front, the creativity of Hussein and the finishing of Abdel Raouf Yagoub, their top scorer with two goals, will be crucial if they are to trouble Senegal’s backline.

Senegal also boast a fully fit team. Thiaw may be tempted to tweak his formation after the semifinal setback, but his core players remain in place.

Keeper Diouf should retain his spot between the posts, while Gueye and Cisse are tasked with controlling midfield.

In attack, Koita and Gomis will be relied upon to stretch Sudan’s defense and provide the cutting edge that deserted them against Morocco. With Joseph Layousse already having scored twice in the competition, the Lions of Teranga have enough firepower to make the difference.

Where to Watch

Fans across the continent will not miss the action, with live coverage available in Kenya on KBC Channel 1 and regional broadcast on Azam TV.

SuperSport will carry the game on both DStv and GOtv platforms, ensuring wide reach across Africa. Kick-off is scheduled for 16:00 GMT+1, which is 8pm EAT, at the iconic Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.