Nairobi, Kenya: The Atlas Lions of Morocco Saturday claimed the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) title after a pulsating 3-2 victory against Madagascar at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi, sealing their third title in 7 years of the continental tournament.
Madagascar, making their first-ever final appearance in the tournament, stunned the African giants, with Félicité Manouhantzua unleashing a long-range strike in the 9th minute past goalkeeper Mehdi Al Harrar.
But the Atla Lions responded in the 27th minute when Youssef Mehri headed in a precise cross from Khalid Baba to level the score.
Just before halftime, Morocco took the lead through Oussama Lamlioui, who converted a pass from Mohamed Boulacsout, sending his team into the break 2-1 up.
Madagascar refused to back down, with Toky Rakotondribe striking in the 68th minute to make it 2-2.
The decisive moment arrived in the 80th minute, when Lamlioui, who finished as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals, fired a spectacular long-range effort to restore Morocco’s lead. The Atlas Lions defended resolutely in the closing minutes to secure victory.
The triumph marked Morocco’s third CHAN title, following their 2018 and 2020 wins, cementing their status as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.
Coach Tarik Sektioui praised his side’s resilience, noting their ability to come from behind twice in a high-pressure final against a determined Madagascar team.
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