Morocco have stamped their authority on the African Nations Championship once again, clinching a record third title with a dramatic 3-2 win over Madagascar in Saturday’s final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, were tested to the limit by the debutant finalists but ultimately relied on their pedigree, experience, and the brilliance of striker Oussama Lamlaoui. The forward scored twice to finish as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals, including the strike destined to be remembered as the defining moment of CHAN 2025.
“With Madagascar pushing high in search of an equaliser, Lamlaoui spotted goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa off his line and fired a stunning 40-yard effort into the net,” CAF Online reported. The audacious strike sealed Morocco’s gold medal, the $3.5 million prize money, and left even Malagasy players applauding, while Madagascar’s spirited run ended with silver and a $1.2 million reward.
Morocco strike, Madagascar respond
The final opened at a frenetic pace, with Morocco breaking the deadlock inside 15 minutes as Lamlaoui pounced on Youssef Mehri’s precise through ball. Madagascar, whose fairytale run had captured the continent’s imagination, hit back through Toky Rakotondraibe after a defensive lapse.
Parity lasted only briefly. Sabir Bougrine restored Morocco’s lead with a composed finish before halftime, again set up by the influential Mehri.
Lamlaoui wonder strike, tense finish
Lamlaoui’s stunning long-range goal in the second half gave Morocco breathing space, but Madagascar refused to bow out quietly. Playmaker Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa pulled one back with 12 minutes left, sparking a nervy finish.
Despite throwing bodies forward and forcing two late corners, Madagascar could not find the equaliser as Morocco held firm to secure their third CHAN crown in six years.
History for both sides
The victory confirmed Morocco as the most successful team in CHAN history. For Madagascar, it was a bittersweet night — heartbreak in the final, but also a historic achievement. In only their second CHAN appearance, they became the first island nation and the 13th country to reach a CAF senior final.
Their fearless style, highlighted by a dramatic extra-time semi-final win over Sudan, earned admiration across Africa and hinted at a bright future for Malagasy football.
A fitting end to PAMOJA 2024
The final capped a month-long tournament co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda — the first time CHAN was staged across three nations. With vibrant crowds and packed stadiums, the PAMOJA edition showcased African football at its finest.
As fireworks lit up Nairobi, Morocco once again stood tallest — their resilience, organisation, and Lamlaoui’s brilliance proving decisive. For Madagascar, their silver medal marked not just defeat but also a new beginning — a reminder that African football still has room for fairytales.
