Morocco Clinches Historic Third African Nations Championship Title with 3-2 Win Over Madagascar
In a thrilling final at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium on Saturday, Morocco secured their third African Nations Championship (CHAN) title by defeating Madagascar 3-2. This victory marks Morocco as the first nation to win the tournament three times.
The match, held before a packed crowd largely supporting Morocco, began with an early chance for the Atlas Lions. Oussama Lamlioui capitalized on a defensive error from Madagascar but missed an open goal, a miss that proved costly as Madagascar took the lead in the ninth minute. Felicite Manohantsoa finished a well-coordinated team move with a precise curling shot into the top right corner, surprising the home crowd.
Morocco responded steadily, with Mohamed Boulacsout narrowly missing an equalizer in the 20th minute. Seven minutes later, Morocco leveled the score when Khalid Baba delivered a corner kick that Youssef Mehri headed into the net. Mehri, who had already contributed three assists during the tournament, continued to be a key player for Morocco.
The Atlas Lions doubled their advantage just before halftime. Lamlioui tapped in a goal from close range following a VAR review that confirmed no foul had occurred during the buildup.
In the second half, Morocco dominated possession but struggled to extend their lead. Madagascar capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 68th minute when Toky Rakotondraibe broke through the Moroccan defense and scored, leveling the match once again.
Morocco intensified their attacks, nearly scoring from a corner when Lamlioui’s low shot was blocked by a defender at the near post. As Madagascar adopted a defensive stance to protect the draw, Morocco remained patient and persistent.
The decisive moment came nine minutes from time when Lamlioui executed a remarkable goal from the halfway line, catching the Madagascar goalkeeper off his line and sending the ball soaring into the net. This spectacular strike ultimately secured Morocco’s victory.
Morocco’s triumph marks their return to the CHAN winners’ podium since their last title on home soil in 2020, adding to their 2018 championship win. The team will receive a $3.5 million prize for their success.
Madagascar, who improved on their third-place finish in 2022 by reaching the final this year, earned $1.2 million for their runner-up performance.
