The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) final, held at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, witnessed a dramatic showdown between Morocco and Madagascar. The match, a pulsating encounter from start to finish, ultimately saw Morocco emerge victorious with a 3-2 scoreline, securing their record third CHAN title. Madagascar, in their maiden appearance in a continental final, displayed remarkable resilience and fighting spirit, pushing the tournament favorites to their limits. Oussama Lamlioui, the Moroccan hero of the night, scored a brace, including a stunning long-range effort that sealed the victory.
The underdogs, Madagascar, drew first blood, silencing the Moroccan supporters with an early goal in the 9th minute. Felicite “Fely” Manohantsoa unleashed a spectacular long-range strike that left the Moroccan goalkeeper rooted to the spot, giving Madagascar an unexpected lead. The early goal injected a surge of energy into the Malagasy side, and they continued to threaten the Moroccan defense with their swift counter-attacks and skillful play. However, Morocco, a team brimming with talent and experience, gradually regained their composure and began to assert their dominance on the game.
Morocco’s pressure eventually paid off in the 27th minute when Youssef Mehri rose highest to meet a well-delivered cross, powering a header into the back of the net. The equalizer restored parity and shifted the momentum back in Morocco’s favor. They continued to probe the Malagasy defense, searching for the go-ahead goal. Just before halftime, their persistence was rewarded. A deflected cross fell kindly to Oussama Lamlioui, who reacted quickly to poke the ball past the Madagascar goalkeeper, Michel “Toldo” Ramandimbisoa, giving Morocco a 2-1 lead going into the break.
The second half resumed with the same intensity and drama as the first. Madagascar, refusing to surrender, mounted a spirited comeback. Their efforts were rewarded in the 68th minute when Toky Rakotondraibe displayed remarkable composure inside the box, controlling a pass with his first touch and slotting the ball past the Moroccan goalkeeper with his second, leveling the score at 2-2. The equalizer set the stage for a thrilling climax to the match, with both teams vying for the decisive goal.
The decisive moment arrived in the 80th minute, courtesy of a moment of individual brilliance from Oussama Lamlioui. Spotting the Madagascar goalkeeper slightly off his line, Lamlioui unleashed a breathtaking shot from 50 yards out, sending the ball soaring over the stranded goalkeeper and into the back of the net. The audacious strike, a goal worthy of winning any final, sent the Moroccan bench and supporters into raptures. It was a goal that showcased Lamlioui’s exceptional talent and cemented his place as the hero of the final.
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the Moroccan players and fans as they savored their hard-fought victory. The win marked Morocco’s third CHAN title, solidifying their status as the most successful team in the tournament’s history. Madagascar, despite the heartbreaking defeat, could hold their heads high, having exceeded all expectations by reaching the final. Their performance throughout the tournament demonstrated the growth and potential of Malagasy football. The 2024 CHAN final will be remembered as a captivating encounter, showcasing the passion, skill, and drama of African football.
