Morocco clinch third CHAN title with thrilling win over Madagascar

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Morocco’s Atlas Lions cemented their dominance in African football by clinching a dramatic 3-2 victory over Madagascar in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) final at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, securing a record-extending third title.

The pulsating match, witnessed by a sold-out crowd of 48,000, saw Morocco overcome an early deficit to etch their name further into CHAN history.

Madagascar, in their first-ever continental final, stunned the favourites early when Félicité Manohantsoa unleashed a 20-yard screamer in the ninth minute, silencing the vibrant Kasarani crowd.

However, Morocco’s resilience shone through as Youssef Mehri equalized in the 27th minute with a header from Khalid Baba’s pinpoint cross.

Just before halftime, tournament top scorer Oussama Lamlaoui struck to give the Atlas Lions a 2-1 lead, converting a precise delivery from Mohamed Boulacsout.

The Barea of Madagascar refused to relent, with Toky Rakotondraibe leveling the score in the 68th minute, sparking hopes of a historic upset for the island nation.

Yet, Lamlaoui, who finished the tournament with six goals, delivered the decisive blow in the 80th minute. Shrugging off a defender, he unleashed a stunning half-volley from distance that left goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa helpless, sealing Morocco’s triumph.

Coach Tarik Sektioui, who guided Morocco through a grueling campaign across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, praised his team’s composure.

“We faced a tough opponent, but our determination to honour Moroccan football carried us through,” he told CAF Online post-match.

Madagascar’s coach, Romuald Rakotondrabe, expressed pride despite the loss: “This final was a dream for our people. We fought until the end.”

The victory, celebrated in the presence of FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Kenyan Head of State William Ruto, marks Morocco’s third CHAN title, following triumphs in 2018 and 2020.

The Atlas Lions pocketed $3.5 million in prize money, while Madagascar’s remarkable journey earned them $1.2 million and widespread admiration as the first Southern African and island nation to reach the final.

Morocco’s journey included a penalty shootout win over defending champions Senegal in the semifinals, showcasing their knockout prowess.

Madagascar, despite losing key striker Fenohasina Gilles Razafimaro to a red card in their semifinal against Sudan, displayed resilience throughout the tournament, notably ousting hosts Kenya in a dramatic quarterfinal shootout.