February 05, (THEWILL) – Senegal won their first-ever TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Saturday, after defeating Algeria 5-4 on penalties in a thrilling final at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers.
The match was watched by 39,120 spectators on a cold winter night. The result was a major triumph for Senegal, which saw them complete the treble in a year that has seen them lift the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the Beach Soccer AFCON.
The game remained goalless at half-time, and both coaches made changes to increase their intensity in the second half. Yet, despite close calls from both sides, the tightly contested match ended in a goalless draw after regular time, leading to extra time and eventually, penalties.
Senegal took the lead in the shootouts as Elhadji Mooutarou Balde, scored the first penalty, followed by successful efforts from Moussa Ndiaye, Moussa Kante, and Lamine Camara. Algeria managed to level the score three times, with goals from Akram Djahnit, Zakaria Draoui, and Soufiane Bayazid, but they eventually lost after Ahmed Kendouci, missed his chance to equalise.
Immediately, animated celebrations erupted from the Teranga Lions as the contrasting heartbreak of the home side was starkly obvious. Despite the loss, Algeria set a new tournament record by not conceding in six games during regular time.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
