Morocco have stamped their authority on African football again after edging Madagascar 3-2 in a thrilling African Nations Championship (CHAN) final on Saturday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The Atlas Lions, already champions in 2018 and 2020, fought off a spirited Malagasy side to become the first country to win the CHAN title three times.
Star striker Oussama Lamlaoui was the hero of the night, scoring twice — including a jaw-dropping 40-yard strike that will live long in CHAN history. His brace took his tally to six goals, earning him the golden boot.
“With Madagascar chasing an equaliser, Lamlaoui saw goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa off his line and let fly from distance. The ball sailed into the net and even Malagasy players applauded the audacity,” CAF Online reported.
The wonder goal sealed Morocco’s victory and the $3.5 million prize money, while Madagascar — debut finalists — settled for silver and $1.2 million after a fairytale run.
End-to-end action
The game exploded into life early. Lamlaoui drew first blood after Youssef Mehri sliced open the Malagasy defence.
But Madagascar, unfazed on their biggest stage yet, hit back through Toky Rakotondraibe, who punished a defensive blunder to draw level.
Parity didn’t last. Morocco restored their lead before half-time, Sabir Bougrine drilling home after another sharp assist from Mehri.
Lions roar, Madagascar fight
Lamlaoui’s wonder strike stretched Morocco’s lead to 3-1 after the break, but Madagascar refused to bow out quietly.
Their playmaker, Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa, pulled one back with 12 minutes to go, setting up a tense finale. The islanders pushed hard, even winning two corners in stoppage time, but Morocco’s defence held firm.
History made
The win cements Morocco’s place as CHAN’s undisputed kings. For Madagascar, defeat came with pride — their run to the final was the best ever by an island nation in the tournament’s history.
From stunning counter-attacks to their extra-time win over Sudan in the semi-finals, the Malagasy side left Kasarani with heads held high, having captured the imagination of African football fans.
