Oussama Lamlioui etched his name into African football history on Saturday night, delivering a brace that powered Morocco’s Atlas Lions to their third TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) crown. The 3-2 victory over debut finalists Madagascar lit up a packed Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in what will be remembered as one of the tournament’s most dramatic finals.
The Malagasy, fondly known as the Barea a name drawn from the country’s iconic Zebu bull struck first blood. Felicite Manohantsoa stunned the North Africans with a thunderous ninth-minute opener, briefly igniting dreams of an upset. But Morocco’s composure soon showed. In the 27th minute, Youssef Mehri met Khalid Baba’s inviting cross to restore parity, setting the tone for a pulsating contest.
Just before halftime, Lamlioui pounced on a defensive lapse inside Madagascar’s box, sweeping Morocco into the lead and sending their fans into delirium.
Madagascar, resilient and unbowed, clawed their way back into the game in the 68th minute when Toky Rakotondraibe capitalised on a rare defensive error to level matters once more. For a moment, the underdogs dared to dream.
But Lamlioui had the final say. With ten minutes left, the striker showcased his class, lofting a clever finish over goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa, who had strayed off his line. The goal sealed a 3-2 triumph and Morocco’s place in CHAN folklore.
The Atlas Lions’ triumph is historic: seven wins out of seven in this edition, and a record-breaking third title, adding to their 2018 and 2020 triumphs. No nation has dominated the tournament quite like Morocco since its inception in 2009.
The glittering final drew an illustrious guest list, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CAF boss Dr. Patrice Motsepe, Moroccan FA chief and CAF First Vice President Faouzi Lekjaa, Kenyan President William Ruto, and Madagascar’s President Andre Rajoelina among those witnessing the spectacle.
For Morocco, the night in Nairobi was more than just another trophy it was the crowning of a dynasty.
