The first leg of the final round of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 qualifiers recorded mixed results on Sunday, setting the stage for dramatic second-leg clashes.
In a keenly contested West African derby, Cote d’Ivoire secured a commanding 2-0 win over Burkina Faso.
Oumar Konaté’s brace at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny gave the Elephants’ the advantage, putting them in a solid position for the return fixture in Bamako.
Elsewhere, Sudan secured a 2-0 away win over Ethiopia, while Mauritania defeated Mali 1-0 in a closely contested match while Cameroon secured an important 1-0 away win over Central African Republic.
South Sudan earned a narrow 3-2 victory over Rwanda in a thrilling encounter. Goals from Malish Mandela and Ezibon, along with an early own goal from Nsabimana, gave the Bright Stars the edge.
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However, Rwanda’s fightback with goals from Muhire and Didier kept their hopes alive ahead of the decisive second leg in Kigali.
Meanwhile, Nigeria and Ghana played out a goalless draw in Accra, with both teams showing defensive solidity.
The second leg next week promises to be a fierce battle as both sides aim to secure qualification.
Defending champions Senegal were held to a 1-1 draw by Liberia in Monrovia. Seydina Mbaye’s goal for Senegal was canceled out by Bility’s late equalizer.
With the return leg set for Dakar, Senegal will rely on their home advantage to progress.
Since the first leg of qualifiers have been concluded, all eyes are on the second-leg fixtures starting from December 25, where teams will fight for a place in CHAN 2024 to be played in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda in February next year.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
