CHAN 2024: Madagascar Joins Kenya and Tanzania in Quarter-Finals

The African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 is heating up, and three nations have already secured their spots in the quarter-finals: Madagascar, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Madagascar became the latest side to book a place in the last eight after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Burkina Faso on Saturday evening. The win ensured they finished second in Group B with 7 points from 4 matches, edging Mauritania—who also had 7 points—on goal difference.

Tanzania, meanwhile, topped the group with 10 points, showcasing their dominance and consistency, while Mauritania narrowly missed out despite a strong campaign. At the other end, Burkina Faso (3 points) and the Central African Republic (1 point) crashed out after struggling to make an impact.

Opinion:
This year’s CHAN is already proving why it’s one of Africa’s most underrated tournaments. The story of Madagascar, in particular, is a reminder of how far African football has come in terms of competitiveness. A few years ago, no one would have tipped them to emerge from such a tricky group, but here they are—standing shoulder to shoulder with East African giants like Kenya and Tanzania.

What’s even more exciting is the balance this tournament is showing. No team looks untouchable, and that unpredictability is what keeps fans glued. With Madagascar’s resilience, Tanzania’s authority, and Kenya’s grit, the quarter-finals promise to deliver thrilling encounters.

If anything, this also highlights a bigger narrative: African football is no longer about the usual powerhouses. Nations once considered outsiders are now carving their names into continental football history. And if CHAN continues like this, we might just witness a fairy-tale run from one of these underdogs.