Morocco clinched their third African Nations Championship (CHAN) crown after edging Madagascar 3-2 in a dramatic final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Kenya.
The Atlas Lions, winners in 2018 and 2020, were stretched to the limit by a determined Malagasy side, but their composure and experience ultimately secured the victory.
Star striker Oussama Lamlaoui stole the spotlight, scoring twice – including a spectacular 40-yard strike – to finish the tournament as top scorer with six goals. His match-winning performance sealed Morocco’s third title in just six years.
The triumph also came with a $3.5 million prize for Morocco, while debut finalists Madagascar earned $1.2 million along with silver medals for their historic run.
The final lived up to its billing with end-to-end drama. Madagascar struck first in the 9th minute through Felicite Manohantsoa, before Youssef Mehri equalised for Morocco after a clever assist from Khalid Baba. Lamlaoui then put the Atlas Lions ahead, only for Toky Rakotondraibe to level for Madagascar in the second half after a defensive lapse.
With the match heading for extra time, Lamlaoui produced the decisive moment – a stunning long-range effort that caught goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa off his line. The audacious goal silenced the stadium before even drawing applause from Madagascar’s players and fans, a fitting climax to a pulsating contest.
Despite late pressure, including two stoppage-time corners, Madagascar could not find a third goal, leaving Morocco to celebrate another golden chapter in their CHAN history.
For Madagascar, it was a bittersweet ending to a remarkable journey. In only their second CHAN appearance, they became the first island nation and the 13th African country to reach a senior CAF final. Their fearless counterattacking style and resilience — including an extra-time win over Sudan — earned admiration across the continent.
The month-long competition was co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marking the first time CHAN was staged across three countries. Packed stadiums, passionate atmospheres, and competitive football kept fans engaged until the final whistle.
As fireworks lit up the Nairobi sky, Morocco celebrated with their medals, underscoring their discipline, tactical strength, and Lamlaoui’s brilliance.
There was further recognition for Moroccan midfielder Mohamed Rabie Hrimat, who was named Man of the Competition for his consistent performances and leadership. Lamlaoui claimed the Top Scorer Award, finishing ahead of South Africa’s Thabiso Kutumela, Uganda’s Allan Okello, and Algeria’s Soufiane Bayazid, who each netted three goals.
Senegal took home the Fair Play Award, praised by CAF for their sportsmanship and discipline throughout the tournament.
With Morocco on top once again, Madagascar’s fairytale run ensured CHAN 2025 will be remembered as one of the most exciting editions in the competition’s history.