Oussama Lamlioui’s long-range stunner ensured Morocco retained their grip on the African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Madagascar in the 2024 final at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium.
The RS Berkane forward produced the moment of magic in the 80th minute, striking instinctively from nearly fifty yards to beat Madagascar goalkeeper Michel “Toldo” Ramandimbisoa, sealing Morocco’s record third CHAN title.
Madagascar, playing their first-ever continental final, stunned the Atlas Lions early when forward Felicite “Fely” Manohantsoa rifled home a sensational ninth-minute opener from distance to spark wild celebrations among the crowd.
But Morocco’s composure and tournament pedigree soon told. In the 27th minute, Youssef Mehri restored parity with a towering header from Khalid Baba’s cross before Lamlioui pounced on a deflected ball to give the North Africans a 2-1 halftime lead.
The Barea, however, refused to bow. Inspired substitutions and spirited play brought them level in the 68th minute when captain Nantenaina “Tony” Randiramanampisoa’s cross was flicked on by Fely for substitute “Toky” Rakotondraibe to finish sharply.
With the tie delicately poised at 2-2, Lamlioui once again rose to the occasion, punishing a loose clearance with his audacious strike that looped beyond Toldo’s fingertips.
The breathtaking final highlighted Morocco’s dominance in CHAN history while underlining Madagascar’s meteoric rise on the continental stage. The Atlas Lions celebrated a historic third crown, but the Barea departed Nairobi with pride and admiration after pushing the champions all the way.
Awards
Highlights
