September 1 – Morocco claimed their third CHAN title after defeating the tournament’s surprise package Madagascar 3-2 in the final in Nairobi, Kenya, yesterday (Sunday).
After back-to-back wins in 2018 and 2022, the North Africans added the 2024 CHAN to their trophy cabinet after a brace from Oussama Lamlioui proved to be decisive in a tightly contested match.
The Moroccans enjoyed the home support at a packed Kasarani Stadium because Madagascar had eliminated Kenya from the tournament in the last eight.
Madagascar struck early against the flow of play, with Clavin Felicite Manohantsoa firing home a brilliant opener in the ninth minute. Morocco hit back in the 27th when Youssef Mehri rose to head in the equaliser, before Oussama Lamlioui edged them in front on the stroke of half-time.
Madagascar refused to fade, drawing level in the 68th through Toky Rakotondrabe’s finish, but Morocco had the final word. Lamlioui completed his brace with a volley, catching veteran keeper Michel Ramandimbisoa off his line to clinch the win.
Despite the loss, the runners-up spot was still Madagascar’s best-ever result at the CHAN after finishing third at their debut campaign in the 2022 edition in Algeria.
Madagascar coach Romuald Rakotondrabe conceded it was tough to lose the final, but promised his side will rise again: “I am very proud of my players because they matched Morocco. Congratulations to them. They put up an excellent performance in this tournament. It has been good but difficult to lose in the final.
“It all boils down to hard work. We have been working hard over the last two months on tactics and physicality. We have to maintain the mindset and positive spirit. We must continue living as one family, as that is what our strength is. We will continue to work hard to win the tournament one day.”
CAF boss Patrice Motsepe, FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Kenya’s head of state William Ruto attended the showpiece match.
The tournament served as a warm-up event for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations which will be co-hosted by the same triumvirate of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
The tournament was not without controversy though. Several Harambee Stars matches were played before reduced crowds after organisers chose to restrict ticket sales due to crowd trouble and ticketing problems.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1756722429labto1756722429ofdlr1756722429owedi1756722429sni@i1756722429tnuk.1756722429ardni1756722429mas1756722429
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