Morocco have cemented their dominance of the African Nations Championship after securing a record third title with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Madagascar in Saturday’s final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, were pushed to the wire by the debutant finalists but relied on their pedigree, experience, and the brilliance of star striker, Oussama Lamlaoui, who struck twice to finish as the tournament’s leading scorer with six goals.
Lamlaoui’s goals included what will be remembered as the defining moment of the 2025 CHAN.
“With Madagascar pushing higher in search of an equaliser, Lamlaoui spotted goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa off his line and unleashed a stunning 40-yard strike that sailed into the net,” a post-match report on the CAF Online website revealed this.
The audacious effort left fans — and even Malagasy players — applauding, sealing Morocco’s gold medal and the $3.5 million prize money, while Madagascar’s gallant run ended in silver and a $1.2 million payout.
Morocco strike first, Madagascar respond
The final began at a frantic pace, and Morocco drew first blood inside the opening 15 minutes.
Lamlaoui put his side ahead with a poacher’s finish after Youssef Mehri sliced through the Malagasy defence with a precise pass.
But Madagascar, whose remarkable fairytale had captured the imagination of the continent, found a way back.
Morocco have cemented their dominance of the African Nations Championship after securing a record third title with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Madagascar in Saturday’s final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Against the run of play, Toky Rakotondraibe equalised, capitalising on a defensive lapse to spark wild celebrations among their supporters.
Parity was short-lived. Morocco restored their advantage before the break when Sabir Bougrine drilled low past Ramandimbisoa, once again teed up by the excellent Mehri.
Madagascar fight to the end
The Atlas Lions tightened their grip after Lamlaoui’s wonder strike in the second half, but Madagascar were not done.
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