Morocco’s locally-based national team has been crowned champions of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a dramatic 3–2 win over Madagascar in the final at Kasarani Stadium. The Atlas Lions, led by coach Tarik Sektioui, overcame an early setback and showcased their resilience to lift the trophy for a record third time.

The match began with Morocco on the front foot, nearly scoring in the second minute when tournament top scorer Oussama Lamlioui broke through but missed a golden opportunity. Madagascar responded swiftly, stunning the crowd in the seventh minute with a brilliant volley from Calvin Felicite that flew past goalkeeper Elmehdi Al Harrar.

Undeterred, Morocco intensified their attack, dominating possession and pressing high. Their efforts paid off in the 27th minute when Youssef Mehri headed in a well-placed cross from Khalid Baba off a quick free-kick. Just before halftime, Lamlioui made amends for his earlier miss, converting a precise delivery from Mohamed Boulcsout to give Morocco a 2–1 lead.

The second half saw Morocco continue to control the tempo, but Madagascar found a lifeline in the 68th minute. Felicite flicked on a long cross, setting up Toky Rakotondraibe for a composed finish to level the score. With the game hanging in the balance, Lamlioui produced a moment of magic in the 80th minute—spotting the goalkeeper off his line and launching a long-range strike from outside the box to seal the win.

Madagascar pushed hard in the closing stages, but Morocco held firm to secure the title in front of FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The victory capped off a strong tournament for the Atlas Lions, who entered as favorites despite an early group-stage loss to Kenya. They bounced back with wins over Angola, Zambia, DR Congo, and a dramatic penalty shootout triumph against Senegal in the semifinals.

Morocco’s CHAN 2024 campaign included five wins, one loss, and one shootout victory. Their triumph earns them $3.5 million in prize money, while Madagascar, the runners-up, will receive $1.2 million. The third and fourth-placed teams will be awarded $700,000 and $600,000 respectively.

With this win, Morocco adds another chapter to their CHAN legacy, having previously lifted the trophy in 2018 and 2020.