In a captivating finale to the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya, Morocco’s Atlas Lions emerged victorious, defeating first-time finalists Madagascar 3-2 to claim their third CHAN title. The pulsating match, marked by skillful play, dramatic moments, and intense competition, solidified Morocco’s status as the most successful team in the tournament’s history. With previous triumphs in 2018 as hosts and a successful title defense in 2020, the Atlas Lions have now set a new benchmark for excellence in the biennial competition reserved for players competing in their domestic leagues.
Oussama Lamlioui was the hero of the night, scoring a brace that propelled Morocco to victory, while Youssef Mehri contributed the third goal to secure the win. Madagascar, despite their valiant effort, could not overcome the Moroccan juggernaut, with Clavin Felicite Manohantsoa and Toky Niaina Rakotondraibe finding the net for the underdogs. The final showcased the depth of talent in African football, with Morocco’s experience and attacking prowess ultimately prevailing over Madagascar’s spirited performance. The Atlas Lions’ journey to the title was not without challenges, as they overcame former champions Senegal in a dramatic penalty shootout in the semifinals, while Madagascar stunned Sudan to reach their historic first final.
A Historic Triumph for Morocco
The 2024 CHAN final was a testament to Morocco’s dominance in the tournament, which is unique in its focus on players who ply their trade in their domestic leagues. The Atlas Lions’ victory in Nairobi marked their third CHAN title, surpassing all other nations in the competition’s history. Their first triumph came in 2018 when they hosted the tournament, defeating Nigeria 4-0 in a commanding performance. They followed this success with a title defense in 2020 in Cameroon, cementing their reputation as a powerhouse in African football. The 2024 victory further solidified Morocco’s legacy, showcasing their ability to consistently produce top-tier talent from their domestic league, the Botola Pro.
The final against Madagascar was a thrilling encounter that captivated fans at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi. Morocco, led by coach Hicham Dmiai, entered the match as favorites, given their pedigree and experience in high-stakes matches. However, Madagascar, making their debut in the CHAN final, proved to be formidable opponents, pushing the Atlas Lions to their limits with their resilience and attacking intent. The 3-2 scoreline reflected the competitiveness of the match, with both teams showcasing the quality and passion that define African football.
The Road to the Final
Morocco’s journey to the 2024 CHAN title was marked by determination, skill, and moments of brilliance. In the group stage, the Atlas Lions navigated a challenging group that included tough opponents like Algeria and Mali. Their ability to dominate possession, create scoring opportunities, and maintain defensive solidity saw them advance to the knockout rounds with relative ease. In the quarterfinals, Morocco faced a stern test against a resilient Niger side, securing a hard-fought victory to book their place in the semifinals.
The semifinal clash against former champions Senegal was a highlight of the tournament. Both teams played out a tense 1-1 draw after 90 minutes and extra time, with neither side able to break the deadlock. The match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where Morocco’s composure and experience shone through. Goalkeeper Anas Zniti, a veteran of the Botola Pro, made crucial saves, while Morocco’s penalty takers held their nerve to secure a spot in the final. The victory over Senegal, a team with a rich footballing history and a title win in 2020, underscored Morocco’s ability to perform under pressure.
Madagascar’s path to the final was equally remarkable, if not more so, given their status as underdogs. The Barea, making only their second appearance in the CHAN, defied expectations by reaching the final. Their group stage campaign saw them compete against strong teams like Ghana and DR Congo, with their disciplined defending and quick counterattacks earning them a place in the knockout rounds. In the quarterfinals, Madagascar stunned a fancied Ivory Coast side, showcasing their ability to compete with Africa’s footballing giants.
The semifinal against Sudan was a defining moment for Madagascar. Despite being reduced to 10 men after a red card, the Barea produced a heroic performance, securing a 1-0 victory through a combination of resolute defending and clinical finishing. The win sent shockwaves through the tournament, as Madagascar, a team with limited experience at this level, announced themselves as serious contenders. Their journey to the final captured the imagination of fans across Africa, highlighting the potential for smaller footballing nations to make their mark on the continental stage.
The Final: A Five-Goal Thriller
The 2024 CHAN final was a spectacle that lived up to its billing, with both Morocco and Madagascar delivering performances that showcased the best of African football. From the opening whistle, Morocco asserted their dominance, with their attacking trio of Oussama Lamlioui, Youssef Mehri, and Ismail El Haddad causing problems for Madagascar’s defense. It was Lamlioui who opened the scoring, capitalizing on a well-worked move to fire a low shot past the Malagasy goalkeeper in the 12th minute. The goal set the tone for Morocco’s attacking intent, as they looked to impose their game plan early on.
Madagascar, however, refused to be overwhelmed. Clavin Felicite Manohantsoa equalized for the Barea midway through the first half, latching onto a precise pass to slot the ball home and stun the Moroccan defense. The goal ignited the match, with both teams trading chances in an open and entertaining first half. Morocco’s experience and depth eventually told, as Youssef Mehri restored their lead just before halftime with a clinical finish from a tight angle, sending the Atlas Lions into the break with a 2-1 advantage.
The second half saw Madagascar fight back with renewed vigor. Toky Niaina Rakotondraibe, one of the standout performers of the tournament, leveled the score with a powerful header from a set-piece, showcasing Madagascar’s aerial threat and determination. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Malagasy contingent, who sensed an opportunity to pull off one of the greatest upsets in CHAN history. However, Morocco’s attacking prowess proved decisive, as Lamlioui struck again in the 78th minute, completing his brace with a composed finish after a swift counterattack.
Despite Madagascar’s efforts to find another equalizer, Morocco’s defense, marshaled by captain Yahia Attiyat Allah, held firm in the closing stages. The Atlas Lions managed the game expertly, maintaining possession and thwarting Madagascar’s attempts to create clear-cut chances. The final whistle confirmed Morocco’s 3-2 victory, sparking jubilant scenes among the players and fans, who celebrated their third CHAN title in style.
Oussama Lamlioui: The Hero of the Final
Oussama Lamlioui’s brace in the final was a defining moment in the match, earning him the plaudits as the hero of Morocco’s triumph. The striker, who plays for RS Berkane in the Botola Pro, showcased his clinical finishing and ability to perform under pressure. His first goal demonstrated his predatory instincts in the box, while his second was a testament to his composure, as he calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to secure the win.
Lamlioui’s performance was emblematic of Morocco’s strength in their domestic league, which has produced a steady stream of talent capable of competing at the highest level. His contribution in the final, combined with his consistent performances throughout the tournament, earned him the Golden Boot as the top scorer, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s brightest prospects.
Youssef Mehri also played a crucial role, with his goal just before halftime giving Morocco a vital lead. The midfielder’s ability to find space and deliver in key moments highlighted the depth of Morocco’s squad, which combines experienced players with emerging talents. Mehri’s performances throughout the tournament earned him praise from fans and analysts, who see him as a potential star for both club and country.
Madagascar’s Historic Run
Madagascar’s performance in the 2024 CHAN was nothing short of inspirational. As first-time finalists, the Barea defied the odds to reach the championship match, showcasing their resilience, tactical discipline, and attacking flair. Clavin Felicite Manohantsoa and Toky Niaina Rakotondraibe were standout performers, with their goals in the final reflecting the team’s determination to compete with Africa’s best.
The Barea’s semifinal victory over Sudan, despite being reduced to 10 men, was a defining moment in their campaign. The win showcased their ability to overcome adversity and perform under pressure, qualities that earned them respect across the continent. While they fell short in the final, Madagascar’s run to the championship match was a historic achievement, signaling their emergence as a force in African football.
Third-Place Playoff: Senegal Edge Sudan
In the third-place playoff played on Friday, August 29, 2025, Senegal secured a victory over Sudan in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams showcasing their quality and determination. Senegal, the 2020 CHAN champions, were disappointed not to reach the final but demonstrated their resilience by securing third place. Sudan, despite their loss, can take pride in their performance throughout the tournament, having reached the semifinals and pushed Morocco and Senegal to their limits.
Implications for African Football
Morocco’s victory in the 2024 CHAN underscores the strength of their domestic league and their commitment to developing local talent. The Atlas Lions’ success serves as a model for other African nations, highlighting the importance of investing in domestic leagues to produce players capable of competing at the continental level. Morocco’s ability to win three CHAN titles in six editions is a testament to their footballing infrastructure, coaching, and talent development programs.
For Madagascar, their run to the final represents a significant milestone in their footballing journey. The Barea’s performance will inspire other smaller footballing nations to aim high and compete with the continent’s giants. Their success also highlights the importance of the CHAN as a platform for showcasing domestic talent and providing opportunities for emerging teams to shine.
The 2024 CHAN also showcased the depth of talent across Africa, with players like Lamlioui, Mehri, Manohantsoa, and Rakotondraibe capturing the imagination of fans. The tournament’s focus on domestic players underscores the importance of grassroots football and the role of local leagues in nurturing the next generation of stars.
The Future for Morocco and Madagascar
For Morocco, the 2024 CHAN title is a stepping stone toward greater success in African and global football. The Atlas Lions’ dominance in the tournament positions them as favorites for future editions, and their players will likely attract attention from clubs across Africa and beyond. The experience gained in Nairobi will also prepare Morocco’s domestic stars for international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and World Cup qualifiers.
Madagascar, despite their loss in the final, have much to celebrate. Their historic run to the championship match has put them on the map as a rising force in African football. The Barea will look to build on this success by investing in their domestic league and developing more players capable of competing at the highest level. Their performance in Nairobi is a sign of things to come, as Madagascar aims to establish itself as a regular contender in African competitions.
Conclusion
Morocco’s 3-2 victory over Madagascar in the 2024 Africa Nations Championship final was a fitting climax to a tournament that showcased the best of African football. Oussama Lamlioui’s brace and Youssef Mehri’s goal secured the Atlas Lions’ third CHAN title, cementing their status as the most successful team in the tournament’s history. Madagascar’s spirited performance, led by Clavin Felicite Manohantsoa and Toky Niaina Rakotondraibe, captured the hearts of fans and highlighted the potential of smaller footballing nations.
The 2024 CHAN was a celebration of domestic talent, resilience, and the passion that defines African football. Morocco’s triumph and Madagascar’s historic run will inspire future generations of players and fans, while the tournament’s legacy will continue to shape the continent’s footballing landscape. As Morocco celebrates their latest achievement and Madagascar reflects on their remarkable journey, the 2024 CHAN will be remembered as a milestone in African football history.
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