Sudan advanced to the semi-finals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 after edging Algeria 4-2 on penalties in Zanzibar, setting up a last-four meeting with Madagascar. Sudan is the only team from Cecafa zone remaining in the tournament after eliminating Algeria on penalty shootouts at Amaan Stadium on Saturday, August 23. Sudan and Algeria went into the break level after an intense first half that ended 0-0 in their CHAN quarterfinal clash. The Falcons of Jediane held their nerve in a dramatic shoot-out at the Amaan Stadium after a 1-1 draw across 120 minutes, with goalkeeper Mohamed Abooja the hero after saving twice. Kwesi Appiah’s side, who topped Group D, remain unbeaten in the tournament and continue to build on their remarkable resurgence. Algerian defender Ayoub Ghezala inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing Sudan the lead three minutes from recess. The Desert Foxes poured forward in waves, and their pressure told in the 73rd minute when Soufiane Bayazid bundled home from close range after sustained attacks to force game into extra time which also ended with draw. Sudan scored four penalties while Algerian netted two which were not enough for them to reach semifinals. The Sudanese will be looking to maintain their fairytale against Madagascar in the semifinals.
