Senegal came to the 8th African Nations Championships as defending champions,but are leaving as bronze medalist, a confirmation of their strength at the championship.
Senegal secured third place at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 after edging Sudan 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Friday.
The defending champions, who were denied a place in the final after losing to Morocco on spot-kicks in the semi-finals, showed resilience again in the bronze medal match to earn back-to-back podium finishes.
Sudan struck first in the sixth minute when Mohamed Tia Asad powered home a header from Abdel Raouf Yagoub’s corner.
The Falcons of Jediane defended their lead with discipline, with goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja producing key saves to keep Senegal at bay until the break.
But the Lions of Teranga responded strongly after half-time, and their pressure paid off in the 58th minute when Seyni Ndiaye equalised with a precise header from Ousseynou Seck’s cross.
Senegal dominated possession thereafter, though Sudan remained dangerous on the counter, with Abooja again standing firm.
With no extra time in the third-place play-off, the contest went straight to penalties. Sudan faltered as Walieldin Khdir missed his opening effort and Musab Makeen saw his kick saved by goalkeeper Marc Diouf.
Senegal were clinical, with Joseph Layousse, Issa Kane, Vieux Cissé and Libasse Guèye all converting to seal a 4-2 shootout win.
Senegal Coach, Souleymane Diallo said “This was about character,“The players showed maturity after the disappointment of the semi-final. We wanted to finish with something, and we did that.”
For Sudan, coached by Ghana’s Kwesi Appiah, the defeat was a cruel end to an inspiring campaign. Despite domestic football being crippled by conflict, they eliminated Nigeria and pushed Madagascar to the limit before bowing out in the semi-finals.
Appiah said after the match “We came very far with limited preparation. I am proud of how the team fought. Sudanese football has shown it still has heart,” .
With Senegal celebrating bronze and Sudan reflecting on what might have been, attention now shifts to Nairobi, where Morocco and Madagascar will clash in Saturday’s CHAN 2024 final at Moi International Sports Centre”
