Morocco have been crowned champions of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after defeating Madagascar 3-2 in a thrilling final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Saturday night.
This is Morocco’s third CHAN title, having previously won the tournament in 2018 and 2020, making them the most successful team in the competition’s history. They reclaimed the title from Senegal, the 2022 champions.
The Moroccan team, nicknamed the Atlas Lions, had to come from behind after Madagascar took an early lead in the 9th minute through Clavin Felicite Manohantsoa. But Youssef Mehri equalized in the 27th minute with a powerful header, and Oussama Lamlioui gave Morocco the lead just before halftime with a close-range finish.
Madagascar, nicknamed the Barea, showed resilience in the second half. Substitute Toky Rakotondraibe scored the equalizer in the 67th minute, punishing a defensive mistake by Morocco.
However, the night belonged to Lamlioui, who scored the winning goal in the 80th minute with a spectacular long-range strike that beat Madagascar’s veteran goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa. The goal sealed a 3-2 victory and sent the 45,000 fans at Kasarani into wild celebrations.
For their victory, Morocco earned $3.5 million (approx. KSh452.7 million) in prize money from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Madagascar, the runners-up, received $1.2 million (approx. KSh155 million).
Despite the loss, Madagascar made history by finishing second in only their second appearance at the CHAN finals. They had previously finished third in the 2022 edition held in Algeria.
Although Kenya’s Harambee Stars did not reach the final, the event was historic for the country. It was the first time in 38 years that Kenya hosted a major continental football tournament. The last was the 1987 All Africa Games, where Harambee Stars lost 1-0 to Egypt in the final.
The final was attended by top football and political leaders, including President William Ruto, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and CAF President Patrice Motsepe, who presented the trophy to Morocco’s captain Mohammed Rabie Hrimat.
The final was more than just a football match—it was a grand celebration. Kenyan, Ugandan, and Tanzanian artists including Eddy Kenzo, Zuchu, and Savara Mudigi performed live, entertaining the fans with music and fireworks before kickoff.
Despite Harambee Stars not playing, the stadium was nearly full, with local fans loudly supporting Morocco. They booed Madagascar’s team and cheered every Moroccan attack, giving the North Africans a “home” advantage.
The African Nations Championship (CHAN) is a football tournament for national teams made up of players who play in their local leagues. It is organized by CAF and held every two years.
