…Edges Madagascar 3-2 to emerge PAMOJA 2024 winner
Morocco secured a record third TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) title after edging first-time finalists Madagascar 3-2 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Saturday.
The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, were tested to the limit by a spirited Malagasy side, but ultimately their pedigree and experience told.
Star striker Oussama Lamlaoui was once again the difference, scoring twice — including a spectacular 40-yard effort — to finish as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.
Victory earned Morocco the gold medal and $3.5 million prize money, while Madagascar’s gallant run ended in silver and a $1.2 million payout.
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The final began at a frenetic pace, with Morocco seizing control inside the opening 15 minutes.
Lamlaoui put his side ahead with a trademark poacher’s finish after Youssef Mehri split the Malagasy defence with a precise through ball.
Madagascar, however, showed the resilience that had carried them to the final, as Toky Rakotondraibe equalised midway through the first half against the run of play, capitalising on a defensive lapse to send the Malagasy fans into raptures.
Morocco’s experience shone through when Mehri turned provider again, this time setting up Sabir Bougrine, who drilled low past Michel Ramandimbisoa to restore Morocco’s advantage before half-time.
With Madagascar pushing higher in search of an equaliser, Lamlaoui spotted goalkeeper Ramandimbisoa off his line and unleashed a stunning 40-yard strike that sailed into the net.
The Moroccan team is the only one that has travelled to the three host countries of the tournament, which gave them an edge over their opponent in the final.
“We prepared well for the match against Madagascar. We came to CHAN to play the final and we are fully determined to bring the trophy back to Morocco.
“Winning this title for the third time is a source of pride for all of us. We are aware of the responsibility we bear and we hope to offer this third title to the Moroccan supporters,” Salaheddine Rahouli, Moroccan midfielder said.
For opponents Madagascar, reaching the final is already a historic achievement, but coach Romuald Rakotondrabe insisted his team will not stop here.
“Morocco are the favourites; they are a big country in football,” Rakotondrabe admitted.
In the 3rd place match played earlier on Friday, the defending champion Senegal clinched bronze medal after overcoming Sudan 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Friday.
The defending champions, denied a place in the final after losing to Morocco on penalties in the semi-finals, showed resilience once more in a tense bronze medal match.
Victory means Senegal secured a podium finish in back-to-back tournaments, while Sudan’s wait for a third CHAN medal goes on despite a spirited display.
