South Africa defeated Egypt 3-1 to advance to the final CHAN qualifiers, where they will face Malawi, who beat the Comoros 4-0. Gambia secured their place after a penalty shootout win against Gabon. The tournament, originally scheduled for February, will now occur in August across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
South Africa secured a remarkable 3-1 victory over Egypt in Ismailia, earning a spot in the final qualifying round for the African Nations Championship (CHAN). With a 4-2 aggregate score and a 1-1 first-leg draw in Bloemfontein, South Africa will compete against Malawi in May’s two-legged tie for a berth in the biennial tournament, which has been moved to August due to preparation delays.
Despite being the favored team, Egypt struggled to keep pace with their energetic opponents, ending the first half trailing 2-1. South African captain Neo Maema opened the scoring in the 15th minute and nearly achieved a first-half hat-trick, having struck the woodwork twice. Yandisa Mfolozi extended the lead in the 27th minute after Egypt mishandled a cross, although Abou el Enein quickly replied for the Pharaohs five minutes later.
The potential for an Egyptian comeback faded when Siphelele Luthuli netted a penalty six minutes into the second half, restoring South Africa’s two-goal advantage on aggregate. Egypt, needing at least three goals under the away-goal rule, was unable to mount a significant threat.
Malawi advanced with a resounding 4-0 victory over the Comoros, sealing their qualification after a 2-0 win in the second leg. The goals came from Wongani Lungu and Binwell Katinji in the second half. The Comoros had to play their first-leg match away from home, as they do not possess an international-standard stadium.
Gambia also progressed, overcoming Gabon in a penalty shootout after two goalless draws. Gambia successfully converted all five penalties, winning 5-3 in Franceville, and will face Algeria, who received a bye in the subsequent round. The CHAN tournament is distinctive as it showcases players exclusively from domestic leagues, with matches recognized with full international status that impact FIFA world rankings.
Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo are notable winners of the tournament, each having lifted the trophy twice, while Tunisia, Libya, and Senegal have each claimed one title.
South Africa, Malawi, and Gambia have successfully advanced to the final qualifying rounds of the African Nations Championship. South Africa triumphed over Egypt with a 4-2 aggregate score, while Malawi won convincingly against the Comoros. Gambia outperformed Gabon in a penalty shootout to secure their place. The CHAN tournament, set to take place in August across East Africa, emphasizes local talent and contributes to the FIFA world rankings.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
