Morocco has cemented its place in African football history by winning the African Nations Championship (CHAN) for the third time, defeating Madagascar 3-2 in a thrilling final in Nairobi on Saturday, August 30, 2024.
The Atlas Lions, already winners in 2018 and 2020, showcased resilience and skill throughout the tournament.
Their path to glory included an epic semi-final against defending champions Senegal at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.
The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Sabir Bougrine equalizing Joseph Layousse’s opening goal. Morocco then triumphed in the penalty shootout, 5-3, after Senegalese captain Seyni Ndiaye missed the first attempt, securing their place in the final.
In the championship match, Tarik Sektioui’s squad faced a determined Malagasy side, making its first appearance at this stage of the competition.
Madagascar had reached the final by defeating Sudan 1-0 after extra time in Dar es Salaam, completing a historic run that captured the imagination of fans across the continent. Despite their valiant effort, the Barea could not overcome Morocco’s experience and precision, leaving the Atlas Lions to lift their third CHAN trophy.
The day before, Senegal had claimed the bronze medal by defeating Sudan in the third-place playoff, adding a consolation for the West African nation.
This 8th edition of CHAN marked a milestone as it was co-hosted for the first time by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, with a record 19 teams participating. The tournament, reserved exclusively for players competing in domestic leagues, continues to highlight local talent across Africa and has produced multiple champions since its inception in 2009.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (2009, 2016) and Morocco (2018, 2020, 2024) remain the most successful nations, while Tunisia (2011), Libya (2014), and Senegal (2022) have also lifted the title.
Morocco’s victory not only strengthens its dominance in CHAN history but also underscores the depth of local talent capable of performing on the continental stage, setting a benchmark for other national leagues to emulate.
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