CHAN2024: Morocco overcome defiant Madagascar to set tournament record
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Reading Time: 3min | Sat. 30.08.25. | 20:20
Morocco's resurgence in African football in recent years is underscored by them lifting their third CHAN title in the last four editions
Morocco reaffirmed their dominance in African football after staging a spirited comeback to edge Madagascar 3-2 in a pulsating final to lift the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) title.
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Tarek Sektioui's men have now become the record African Nations Championship (CHAN) winners with three titles, pipping DR Congo, who remain on two trophies.
Their resurgence in African football in recent years is underscored by them lifting their third CHAN title in the last four editions.
The Atlas Lions, roared on by an electrified Kenyan crowd inside the Kasarani Stadium, overcame an early setback to clinch the coveted trophy and a cash prize of USD 3.5 million (approximately Ksh455 million).
The contest sparked into life right from the opening whistle, with Morocco looking threatening in the early exchanges.
In the second minute, RS Berkane forward Oussama Lamlioui nearly opened the scoring after latching onto a delightful through ball from Sabri Bougrine, only to drag his shot inches wide.
Four minutes later, Khalid Baba also came close, his volley narrowly missing the target as Morocco pressed with intent.
Madagascar Goal
Yet, against the run of play, Madagascar stunned the favourites. In the 10th minute, Fosa Juniors’ forward Clavin Felicite latched onto a long pass before unleashing a thunderous volley from 25 yards, leaving Morocco’s goalkeeper Al Harrar with no chance.
The underdogs from the Indian Ocean island erupted in joy, seizing a crucial 1-0 advantage.
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Madagascar’s confidence soared after the goal, with Jean Luc almost doubling their lead. The Mama FC attacker broke clear on a counter-attack and attempted a clever chip, but Al Harrar stood tall to deny him.
As the half
wore on, Morocco gradually imposed itself on the contest, doubling their possession and forcing the Malagasy defence onto the back foot.
Khalid Baba and Youssef Mehri both tested goalkeeper Lalain Michel, who was in inspired form between the posts.
Morocco's first goal
Persistence eventually paid off in the 27th minute when Mehri rose highest to head home a pinpoint cross from Baba, restoring parity and bringing Morocco back into the game. The equaliser shifted momentum firmly towards the Atlas Lions.
Morocco's Second Goal
Morocco’s dominance culminated in a deserved lead just before halftime. A swift counter-attack saw Mohamed Boulacsout swing in a dangerous cross from the right flank, and Lamlioui timed his run perfectly to slot past Michel for his fifth goal of the tournament. With that, Morocco turned the game on its head, going into the interval 2-1 up.
Second Half
The second half unfolded with Morocco seeking to kill off the game. Lamlioui, ever-dangerous, nearly extended the lead but was denied by Michel’s quick reflexes.
On the other end, Madagascar refused to go down quietly. Jean Luc again threatened with a fierce long-range strike, but Al Harrar was equal to the task.
Madagascar Equaliser
The islanders were eventually rewarded for their resilience in the 68th minute. Substitute Toky Rakoton capitalised on a defensive lapse, slotting in from close range after a flicked pass by Clavin Felicite.
The goal silenced Moroccan celebrations and restored hope for Madagascar, who clawed back to 2-2.
Stung by the equaliser, Morocco responded with urgency. Their forwards mounted wave after wave of attacks, with Boulacsout’s powerful shot cleared off the line by Malagasy captain Elysee. As time ticked away, the match seemed destined for extra time.
Morocco Winner
But Oussama Lamlioui had other ideas. With just ten minutes left on the clock, the lethal Berkane striker produced a moment of individual brilliance, hitting a stunning volley from over 30 yards that sailed past Michael into the top corner.
It was a strike worthy of winning any final, and it sent the Moroccan fans into raptures.
Despite Madagascar’s spirited efforts in the closing minutes, Morocco’s defence held firm to secure a memorable 3-2 victory and their third CHAN title.
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