The 2024 edition of the African Nations Championship ended under the bright lights of Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, where Morocco once again proved their continental dominance by edging past first-time finalists Madagascar 3-2 in a thrilling final to claim their third CHAN crown.

The tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania under the unified banner of “Pamoja” delivered an unforgettable month of football, passion, and pride. And its grand finale, played in front of over 46,000 fans and a global if not continental television audience, was nothing short of spectacular.

Before the football drama unfolded, Kasarani was transformed into a celebration of East African identity and artistry. A dazzling multi-stage setup surrounded the pitch, awash in lights and colour. Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo ignited the crowd with his global anthem Sitya Loss, Tanzania’s Zuchu followed with a soulful set, and Kenya’s own Savara brought the home crowd to its feet with an energetic performance that fused music with national pride.

In attendance were figures of regional and global stature: Kenyan President William Ruto, CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, alongside Prime Minister Raila Odinga and ministers from across East Africa, cementing the final as both a sporting and diplomatic moment.

The football, however, quickly took centre stage. Madagascar, appearing in their first-ever senior CAF final and only their second CHAN tournament, stunned the crowd with a dream start. Inside the opening ten minutes, Félicité Mantasoa gave the islanders a 1-0 lead, capitalising on slack Moroccan defending to silence the favourites.

But Morocco, champions in 2018 and 2020, have made a habit of staying calm under pressure. They struck back with a composed finish from Youssef Mehri, assisted by Khalid Baba to make it 1–1. As the North Africans began to control possession. Moments later, Oussama Lamlioui ; a name already etched into CHAN folklore – found space in the box to sweep home Morocco’s second goal and put his side 2–1 in front.

Despite trailing, Madagascar never lost belief. With their lively wide play and fearless attacking intent, they drew 2-2 level again in the second half through Toky Rakotondraibe, who punished a Moroccan defensive lapse to send the Malagasy fans into rapture. At 2-2, with the final finely balanced, it seemed like extra time loomed.

But then came a strike of the highest quality. With Madagascar pushing numbers forward in search of a winner, Lamlioui looked up from nearly 40 yards out, spotted goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa off his line, and unleashed a stunning long-range effort that curled over the keeper and into the net to make it 3–2, Kasarani erupted. Even rival supporters could only applaud the sheer audacity and execution.

That goal ,his sixth of the tournament, cemented Lamlioui’s status as CHAN 2024’s top scorer and the Atlas Lions’ talisman.

The Malagasy continued to press, winning a pair of late corners and keeping Moroccan defenders on edge into stoppage time. But the two-time champions held firm, relying on their superior game management and tournament experience to see out the final whistle and seal a hard-fought 3-2 victory.

Tournament Awards

At the final whistle, Morocco’s players and staff erupted in celebration. Their third CHAN title in six years was a testament to squad depth, composure under pressure, and standout individual brilliance; none more so than Lamlioui. The RS Berkane forward was officially awarded the Golden Boot after finishing with six goals, including a brace in the final.

Midfield general Mohamed Rabie Hrimat, a metronome in Morocco’s engine room throughout the tournament, was named Player of the Tournament ; a deserved recognition for his consistency, vision, and leadership.

On the other end of the pitch, Senegal’s Marc Diouf was honoured as the Best Goalkeeper, having conceded only three goals in five matches and playing a crucial role in Senegal’s bronze-medal finish.

For Madagascar, this was a defeat tinged with dignity. Just two years after reaching the semifinals in their debut CHAN campaign, they defied odds to go one better in 2024 — becoming the first island nation to ever reach a CAF senior final. Their fearless style, defensive resolve, and resilience after being reduced to ten men in the semifinal earned them not just a silver medal, but the admiration of the continent.

As the fireworks painted the Nairobi skyline and the CHAN trophy was hoisted high for a third time by Moroccan hands, CHAN 2024 came to a powerful close. From Kampala, to Arusha, and now Nairobi, the tournament showcased the best of African football ;played by home-based players, supported by local fans, and united under one East African dream.

Their reward extended beyond silverware and glory. Morocco walked away with USD 3.5 million in prize money as champions, while Madagascar earned USD 1.2 million for their valiant run to the final — a substantial boost for both football programs.

Morocco’s reign continues; Madagascar’s journey has only just begun. And Africa, once again, proved that its future is as bright as its present.