By Nabakiibi Doreen Malaika
Day 2 at CHAN 2024 served up tight margins and big moments, with Morocco edging Angola 2-0 and Madagascar and Mauritania sharing the points in a goalless draw.
Morocco’s win came in a cagey affair, sealed by a clinical finish from Imad Riahi in the 29th minute. The forward latched onto a well-weighted through ball and made no mistake, slotting it past the Angolan keeper to put the Atlas Lions ahead.
Angola’s hopes of a comeback took a major hit in the second half when they were reduced to ten men. Ugandan referee Shamira Nabadda didn’t flinch as she showed a straight red card for a reckless challenge a decision that underlined her authority and composure on the big stage.
The dismissal left Angola chasing the game with a man down, and Morocco held firm to claim all three points.
Later in the evening, Madagascar and Mauritania played out a 0-0 draw. Both teams pushed for a winner, but wasteful finishing and solid defending at both ends kept the scores level.
With the group standings beginning to take shape, Morocco now sit in a strong position, while Madagascar and Mauritania will need to step up in their next fixtures to stay in the race.
