By KUNLE SOLAJA, Casablanca.

Morocco’s historic victory at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) was marked not only by the jubilation of fans but also by a heartfelt royal message from King Mohammed VI, whose passion for football once again shone through.

The monarch congratulated the Atlas Lions after their thrilling 3–2 triumph over first-time finalists Madagascar in Saturday’s final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Kenya. With the victory, Morocco claimed their third CHAN title after previous successes in 2018 and 2020.

In his message, King Mohammed VI expressed deep pride in the players’ achievement, calling the victory “a source of joy and pride” for Morocco. “This continental triumph, the third of its kind, reinforces the exceptional achievements and performances recently accomplished by Moroccan football,” he wrote, underlining his unwavering support for the sport that has become central to the kingdom’s international reputation.

The Atlas Lions were pushed to the limit by Madagascar’s spirited challenge, but Morocco’s pedigree and composure proved decisive. Star striker Oussama Lamlioui delivered a masterclass, scoring twice – including a spectacular 40-yard strike – to finish as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.

For King Mohammed VI, whose leadership has been instrumental in the growth of Moroccan football, the win was more than just another title — it was a reaffirmation of his long-standing commitment to the game. Under his reign, Morocco has invested heavily in infrastructure, youth academies, and continental competitions, elevating the kingdom’s standing in global football.

As the Atlas Lions lifted the trophy in Nairobi, the royal message resonated across Morocco, blending the players’ on-pitch heroics with the King’s enduring vision of football as a source of national pride and international influence.

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By KUNLE SOLAJA.

Morocco stand on the brink of history as they prepare to face Madagascar in Saturday’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Nairobi.

The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, are gunning for a record-extending third continental crown — a feat that would cement their dominance in the tournament’s short but storied history. No other nation has won the CHAN more than twice.

Coach Tarik Sektioui’s men have impressed with a blend of tactical discipline and individual brilliance, sweeping past opponents with their trademark attacking flair.

 Much of their firepower has come from striker Oussama Lamlioui, who has already netted four times in the competition, while playmaker Youssef Belammari has quietly dictated games from midfield.

But standing in their way is Madagascar, the surprise package of CHAN 2024. The island nation, playing in their first-ever final, have captured the imagination of fans with their spirited performances and dramatic late win over Sudan in the semi-finals.

For Morocco, the stakes are clear. Victory would not only deliver another trophy but also stamp their authority as the undisputed kings of the competition.

With Morocco’s pedigree up against Madagascar’s fairytale, Saturday’s final promises to be a classic — and possibly the night Morocco etch their name deeper into CHAN folklore.

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The African Nations Championship (CHAN) final in Nairobi this Saturday promises more than a trophy — it sets up a titanic duel between Morocco’s most lethal striker and Madagascar’s immovable guardian.

Oussama Lamlioui, Morocco’s 26-year-old forward, has been the most feared attacker of the tournament with four goals, including a Man of the Match display against DR Congo. His sharp movements and deadly composure have made him the Atlas Lions’ most reliable weapon.

But standing in his way is Madagascar’s veteran goalkeeper Michel “Toldo” Ramandimbisoa, whose fearless saves kept the island nation alive against Sudan in the semi-final.

Known for his strong aerial presence and calmness in pressure moments, Toldo has become the heartbeat of Madagascar’s fairytale run.

As the final drifts closer, the clash between Lamlioui’s precision and Toldo’s reflexes could be the difference between Morocco lifting a third CHAN title and Madagascar writing history with their first.

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