FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CAF’s Patrice Motsepe to grace historic CHAN final at Kasarani
The eyes of African football will be on Nairobi today as FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF's Patrice Motsepe attend the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) final at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Infantino, who is making his first-ever appearance at a football tournament in Kenya, jetted into the country early Saturday morning, followed shortly by Motsepe, who will later address the media in Nairobi.
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Their presence underscores the growing stature of CHAN, a tournament reserved exclusively for home-based players, and a historic moment for Kenya as the co-host alongside neighbours Tanzania and Uganda.
The final will pit seasoned giants Morocco against first-time finalists Madagascar in a clash that symbolises both pedigree and progress. Morocco, champions in 2018 and 2020, are chasing a record third title, while Madagascar - third-place finishers in 2022 - are on the brink of their maiden senior CAF crown.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino. (Photo: Hussein Mohammed/X)
The Atlas Lions booked their ticket to Nairobi after edging Senegal 5-3 on penalties in a tense semifinal in Uganda, while Madagascar stunned Sudan 1-0 in Tanzania despite playing more than 40 minutes with 10 men.
Speaking on the eve of the showdown, Morocco head coach Tarik Sektioui cautioned his players against complacency despite their strong record.
“We may indeed have an advantage because our competition is stronger, that’s for sure. But that doesn’t mean anything. Tomorrow, the 90 minutes will be completely different. Motivation, support, and execution will decide the match,” he said.
Madagascar head coach Romuald Rakotondrabe, meanwhile, struck a humble but determined tone.
“I cannot answer whether we can win the title. Beating Sudan does not guarantee victory. We lost two players before the final, but we have replacements and hope they will make a difference.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe (right) with FKF's Hussein Mohammed. (Photo: Hussein Mohammed/X)
Before the semifinal, we said we must return to Nairobi, and now we will, for the final,” Rakotondrabe stated.
Beyond the football, fans can expect a carnival atmosphere at Kasarani. The closing ceremony, which begins at 2:00 pm, will showcase cultural performances from the four participating nations before kick-off at 6:00 pm.
An entertainment lineup headlined by Kenyan star Savara, Ugandan Grammy nominee Eddy Kenzo, and Tanzanian sensation Zuchu will add colour to the continental spectacle.
Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, assured fans that all preparations are complete, urging early arrival as tickets for the final have already sold out.
As Morocco chases history and Madagascar dreams of a fairytale ending, the presence of Infantino and Motsepe ensures Saturday’s final will not only crown champions but also mark a milestone for East African football on the global stage.
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