CHAN Semis: Morocco poised for Libya, Nigeria entertain Sudan

The African Nations Championship, CHAN Morocco 2018, is at its climax with two cracking semifinal fixtures on programme this Wednesday. 

The first decider pits hosts Morocco to Libya, while Nigeria clash with Sudan later on.

Morocco are unavoidably one of the favourites for the final victory in the on-going CHAN. The Atlas Lions qualified for the semi-finals by beating newcomer Namibia 2-0.

So far, the hosts have netted 9 goals in 4 outings, conceding just once. It looks like the hosts will stop at nothing but the trophy, armed with Ayoub El-Kaabi, who became the tournament’s top scorer after netting his sixth goal against Namibia.

The North African derby promises to be mind-blowing, given that Libyans have also been a delight to watch. Libya booked their place at the last four after beating Congo 5-3 on penalties in their quarter-final clash in Agadir. 

With just 5 goals scored, 2 conceded, the 2014 champions have to work-harder. Harder because FIFA statistics show that out of 11 meetings the Atlas Lions have claimed five wins compared to two for the Knights.

Nigeria v Sudan

At first sight, the fixture Nigeria versus Sudan looks like an easy ride for the local super eagles. However, football is an unpredictable sport that knows no seniors. It should be recalled that Sudan masterminded one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.

The Desert Hawks beat favourites Zambia 1-0 in Marrakech to reach the semis, a fairy tale which must not be taken for granted.

Historically, a 3rd place finish is what both nations pride themselves on. Sudan hosted in 2011, and beat Algeria 1-0 to win bronze, a prize also bagged by Nigeria during South Africa 2014.

So far, Nigeria have 6 goals, 2 more than their opponents Sudan. But have conceded twice, one more than Coach Logarusic’s side.

In this regard, the outcome of the semifinal duel presumably depends on strategy and psychology, but all in all, only time shall tell.