Morocco etched their name deeper into African football history after staging a dramatic comeback to beat Madagascar 3-2 in a pulsating CHAN 2024 final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
It was a night of raw emotion, breathtaking goals, and unrelenting drama — a true final that will be remembered for generations.
The Atlas Lions, chasing their third CHAN crown, were stunned early on when Madagascar’s Clavin Felicite “Fely” Manohantsoa unleashed a thunderbolt from 20 yards that silenced the packed stadium.
But Morocco refused to crumble. With grit and composure, Youssef Mehri levelled in the 27th minute before Oussama Lamliouli — the tournament’s golden boy — struck just before halftime to tilt the tie.
The Barea, however, showed their trademark resilience. In the 68th minute, Toky Niaina Rakotondraibe’s deft finish dragged Madagascar back into the contest, igniting dreams of extra time.
But fate had reserved one final masterpiece. With Kasarani on its feet, Lamliouli produced a strike worthy of legend — a sensational half-volley from near the halfway line that left the Malagasy keeper rooted as the ball kissed the net. The stadium erupted. Even Morocco’s coach, Tarik Sektioui, buried his face in disbelief.
That audacious goal sealed Morocco’s third CHAN triumph, crowning them the tournament’s most successful nation.
The Atlas Lions lifted the gleaming new trophy under the lights of Kasarani, in the presence of President William Ruto, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and CAF boss Patrice Motsepe, who hailed the tournament as the greatest in CHAN history.
From the opening whistle to the last gasp of added time, this final was pure theatre — Africa’s passion, grit, and artistry on full display.
Lamlioui’s Magic Seals Morocco Historic CHAN 2024 Triumph
It was a night of heroes, history, and heart. Morocco’s Oussama Lamlioui cemented his name in CHAN folklore, scoring twice — including an outrageous 40-yard wonder strike — to inspire the Atlas Lions to a breathtaking 3-2 victory over Madagascar in Kasarani.
The victory wasn’t just about silverware; it was about destiny fulfilled. With over 38 million Moroccans glued to their team’s every move, Lamlioui delivered on his promise to the fans: “Trust us, and we will not fail you.” He did more than that — he made the continent gasp.
His thunderous second goal in the 80th minute stunned Madagascar and even left coach Tarik Sektioui clutching his head in disbelief.
That moment ensured Morocco avoided extra-time agony and lifted the CHAN crown for the third time, after their triumphs in 2018 and 2020.
The awards told the story of Morocco’s dominance. Mohammed Hrimat was crowned Player of the Tournament, Lamlioui clinched the Golden Boot with six goals, while Senegal’s Marc Diouf took the Golden Glove and Senegal claimed the Fair Play Award.
But for Lamlioui, the glory belonged to his people. “I thank the Moroccan supporters immensely,” he said, dedicating the triumph to his teammates and His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
With fire, resilience, and unbreakable belief, the Atlas Lions roared their way into history — becoming the first team to win three CHAN titles and reminding Africa why football is more than a game: it is pride, passion, and unity.
Morocco are yet to lose a CHAN final — and in Kasarani, they proved once again why. The Atlas Lions roared back from the brink, turning doubt into destiny, and sealed their place as Africa’s undisputed kings of resilience and glory.
