CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 Qualifiers: First Leg Highlights

The first leg of the final round of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 qualifiers concluded on Sunday with a stunning array of results that promise thrilling second-leg encounters. These matches have set the stage for intense competition as teams battle for a place in the prestigious tournament.

Exciting Wins in Key Derbies

In a highly anticipated clash, Côte d’Ivoire emerged victorious with a resounding 2-0 win against Burkina Faso. Oumar Konaté’s brace at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny was pivotal, putting Côte d’Ivoire in an advantageous position for the return leg in Bamako.

Sudan’s away victory over Ethiopia was another highlight, with a 2-0 scoreline securing their progress. This win underscores Sudan’s determination and strength ahead of their home leg.

Mauritania’s narrow 1-0 victory over Mali in a closely contested match also adds to the intrigue. The second leg is expected to be a closely watched affair.

Thrilling Encounters and Narrow Escapes

South Sudan’s fight for qualification was marked by a nail-biting 3-2 victory over Rwanda. Goals from Malish Mandela and Ezibon, coupled with an early own goal from Nsabimana, secured a narrow win. However, Rwanda’s goals from Muhire and Didier keep their hopes alive, making the second leg in Kigali a must-watch.

Nigeria and Ghana’s goalless draw in Accra is a testament to both teams’ defensive prowess. With no goals separating them, the emphasis shifts to the second leg, which promises to be as intense.

Defending Champions Face Off

Senegal, the defending champions, faced Liberia in Monrovia. A dramatic 1-1 draw kept both teams in contention for a place in the finals. Seydina Mbaye’s opener for Senegal was equalized by Bility in the late stages, setting the stage for a highly anticipated return leg in Dakar.

Full Match Results

Here is a summary of the first leg results, providing an overview of the dramatic encounters:

Saturday, 21 December 2024

• Lesotho 0-2 Angola
• Equatorial Guinea 0-0 Congo
• Mozambique 0-3 Zambia
• Eswatini 0-2 Madagascar
• Chad 1-1 DR Congo

Sunday, 22 December 2024 | Times in GMT

• 13:00: South Sudan 3-2 Rwanda
• 14:00: Central African Republic vs Cameroon
• 14:00: Ethiopia 0-2 Sudan
• 16:00: Ghana 0-0 Nigeria
• 16:00: Côte d’Ivoire 2-0 Burkina Faso
• 16:00: Liberia 1-1 Senegal
• 16:00: Togo 1-1 Niger
• 17:00: Mauritania 1-0 Mali

Looking Ahead to the Second Leg

The second leg of the qualifiers kicks off on December 25, setting the stage for decisive clashes. With teams fighting for a spot in CHAN 2024 to be hosted in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, every minute of action is crucial.

Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso, Sudan and Ethiopia, and Rwanda and South Sudan are among the matchups to watch. Senegal’s home advantage over Liberia may prove decisive. All eyes are on these clashes, as they will determine the final qualification for the African Nations Championship.

What This Means for the Tournament

The results from the first leg not only reflect the current form and skill levels of the teams but also their tactical acumen. As the tournament approaches, the qualification contests will play a significant role in shaping the group stages.

Qualifiers are always a highlight of African football, offering exciting matches and milestones for fans. The journey to CHAN 2024 is far from over, and the second leg promises to be as thrilling as the first.

Conclusion

The first leg of the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 qualifiers has provided us with exciting results, thrilling encounters, and drawn battles. As we approach the second leg, the anticipation grows for the battles that lie ahead.

These matches not only determine the qualification spots but also highlight the rich footballing heritage of African nations. Stay tuned as the action unfolds, leading to an exciting CHAN 2024.

Do you have a favorite team in the CAF African Nations Championship qualifiers? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!