Morocco secured a record third TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) title after defeating Madagascar 3-2 in a thrilling final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Saturday. The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, were tested to the limit by a spirited Malagasy side making their first appearance in a CHAN final, but experience and composure ultimately prevailed.
Star striker Oussama Lamlaoui was the standout player, scoring twice, including a spectacular 40-yard strike, and finishing the tournament as top scorer with six goals. Morocco claimed the gold medal and $3.5 million, while Madagascar earned silver and a $1.2 million prize.
The final got off to a frenetic start, with Lamlaoui opening the scoring after Youssef Mehri split the Malagasy defense with a precise through ball. Madagascar responded through Toky Rakotondraibe, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to level the match. Morocco regained the lead before halftime when Mehri provided another assist for Sabir Bougrine to score. With 22 minutes remaining, Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa’s clever finish brought Madagascar level once more, setting up a tense finale.
Lamlaoui then delivered the decisive moment, spotting the Malagasy goalkeeper off his line and unleashing a stunning 40-yard strike into the net, leaving fans and opponents alike in awe. Despite late pressure from Madagascar, Morocco held firm to secure their third CHAN crown in six years.
For Madagascar, it was a bittersweet ending to a remarkable tournament. In only their second CHAN appearance, they became the first island nation and the 13th country overall to reach a CAF senior final. Their counterattacking style and resilience won admiration across the continent.
The month-long PAMOJA 2024 tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, was staged across three countries for the first time, delivering packed stadiums, electric atmospheres, and competitive football until the final whistle. Morocco’s blend of experience, organisation, and Lamlaoui’s brilliance proved decisive, while Madagascar’s silver medal signals a promising future and the enduring possibility of fairytales in African football.
