CHAN 2024: Morocco overcomes Madagascar to claim third title | OneFootball

A masterful brace from Lamlaoui propels Morocco to the summit of CHAN.

CHAN 2024: Morocco defeats Madagascar to claim third title

Morocco clinched their third title at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) this Saturday, August 30, at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi. The Atlas Lions edged Madagascar 3-2 in a pulsating final. Oussama Lamlaoui was the man of the match, delivering a decisive brace.

Madagascar stunned everyone by opening the scoring as early as the 9th minute through Félicité Mantasoa. The Malagasy striker capitalized on a Moroccan defensive lapse to beat the keeper and give the Barea an early lead in this historic final.

Morocco's response was swift. Youssef Mehri leveled the score in the 27th minute with a pinpoint strike that left Malagasy keeper Michel Ramandimbisoa helpless. This equalizer rekindled hope for the islanders, who never gave up the fight.

Morocco regained the lead before the break thanks to Oussama Lamlaoui. The striker netted his first goal in the 44th minute, sending his team into the dressing room with a precious one-goal advantage.

After the break, Toky Rakotondraibe reignited Malagasy hopes by pulling one back in the 68th minute. The Malagasy midfielder showcased his team's determination by breaching the Moroccan defense. Despite this resurgence, the Barea couldn't find the equalizer.

That's when Lamlaoui delivered the knockout blow. In the 80th minute, the Moroccan center-forward scored a wonder goal from the halfway line. Spotting Malagasy keeper Michel Ramandimbisoa off his line, he unleashed an audacious lob from over 40 meters out that found the back of the net. This phenomenal display of skill sealed victory for the Atlas Lions.

Morocco's local team becomes the most decorated side in CHAN history. Following their triumphs in 2018 and 2020, the Atlas Lions have reaffirmed their status as the continent's gold standard in this competition. This victory earns them a $3.5 million prize, while Madagascar walks away with $1.2 million.