South Africa, Malawi, and Gambia have advanced in the qualifications for the CHAN tournament. South Africa defeated Egypt 3-1, Malawi secured a 4-0 aggregate win over Comoros, and Gambia triumphed in a penalty shootout against Gabon. The CHAN tournament is postponed to August and features players from domestic leagues only.
South Africa achieved a remarkable 3-1 victory over Egypt in Ismailia on Sunday, securing a spot in the final qualifying round for the African Nations Championship (CHAN). With a 4-2 aggregate win after a 1-1 draw in the first leg, they will face Malawi in two matches scheduled for May for a place in the tournament.
Originally set for February, the CHAN tournament, featuring 19 nations and to be hosted in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, has been postponed to August due to preparation delays. Despite being favored from the first leg draw, Egypt struggled against South Africa’s dynamic play and was fortunate to be only 2-1 behind at halftime.
South African captain Neo Maema initiated scoring in the 15th minute and nearly completed a hat-trick, hitting the woodwork twice. Yandisa Mfolozi extended the lead in the 27th minute after Egypt failed to clear a cross, only for Abou el Enein to respond for Egypt shortly after. Siphelele Luthuli sealed South Africa’s victory with a penalty in the second half, ensuring Egypt needed three goals to advance, which was unlikely.
In other matches, Malawi secured their qualification by winning 4-0 on aggregate against the Comoros. They followed a solid first-leg performance with a 2-0 victory in Lilongwe, featuring goals from Wongani Lungu and Binwell Katinji. Notably, the Comoros played their first leg away due to inadequate local stadium facilities.
Additionally, Gambia progressed by overcoming Gabon through a penalty shootout after two scoreless draws. Gambia successfully converted all five penalties to win 5-3, setting up a confrontation with Algeria, who received a bye in this round. The CHAN tournament is unique in that it exclusively features players from domestic leagues, and its matches are recognized internationally, impacting FIFA rankings.
South Africa, Malawi, and Gambia have successfully qualified for the final stages of the CHAN tournament. South Africa’s impressive victory over Egypt, Malawi’s comprehensive win against the Comoros, and Gambia’s penalty shootout triumph against Gabon highlight their readiness for the tournament. The CHAN tournament itself is distinctive in featuring only domestic league players, marking its importance in international football.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
