The African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 culminated in a thrilling final in Nairobi, Kenya, marking a significant milestone for East African football as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania successfully co-hosted the tournament. Hailed by CAF as the most successful in its 15-year history, CHAN 2024 served as a crucial dress rehearsal for the region’s upcoming co-hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027. The tournament showcased compelling football, drawing massive fan support, especially in Kenya, and demonstrated the hosts’ capability to manage a high-profile international event.

The road to the final was paved with drama and heroic performances. In the semi-finals, ten-man Madagascar secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Sudan in extra time, with substitute Toky Rakotondraibe scoring a stunning goal in the 116th minute to send the island nation to their first-ever CHAN final. Madagascar’s coach Romuald Rakotondrabe lauded his team’s unity and belief. In the other semi-final, Morocco, the vastly more experienced side, defeated defending champions Senegal 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with Sabir Bougrine netting his second goal of the tournament for Morocco. This victory propelled Morocco to their third CHAN final, showcasing their composure and experience.

The final, held on August 30th at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, was an anticipated clash between the seasoned champions Morocco and the tournament newcomers Madagascar. Morocco, chasing a record third CHAN crown, had demonstrated their intent with emphatic group stage wins and composed knockout performances. Led by Mohamed Rabie Hrimat and Youssef Mehri, they brought discipline and a winning mentality. Madagascar, on the other hand, embarked on a fairy-tale run, overcoming challenges with crucial wins and a dramatic penalty shootout victory against hosts Kenya in the quarterfinals, with goalkeeper Michel “Toldo” Ramandimbisoa emerging as a hero. Their journey was defined by belief and resilience.

The championship match lived up to expectations, ending in a five-goal thriller. Madagascar initially found the back of the net in the 9th minute through Clavin Felicite Manohatsoa. However, Morocco quickly equalized in the 27th minute via Youssef Mehri. Oussama Lamlioui then snatched the lead for the Atlas Lions in the 44th minute. A resilient Madagascar fought back to level matters in the 68th minute, but it was Lamlioui who sealed victory for Morocco with a screamer fired from midfield, securing a 3-2 win. These goals brought Lamlioui’s tournament tally to six, earning him the top scorer award. Morocco lifted their third CHAN trophy, bagging a prize of Sh453 million, while Madagascar received Sh155 million for their runner-up finish. Senegal, after edging out Sudan, secured third place and Sh90 million.

The co-hosting nations received widespread commendation for their organizational efforts. For the first time, Video Assistant Referee (VAR) was implemented in a tournament across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, aiding crucial decisions. Kenya, in particular, offered a warm welcome, with hotels organizing cultural dancers and teams like Angola’s Black Antelopes experiencing the Nairobi National Park. Zambia Head Coach Avram Grant praised Kenya’s hospitality. Fan turnout was exceptional, especially for Harambee Stars matches, prompting the setup of official fan zones. FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe attended the final, acknowledging President William Ruto’s significant role in upgrading facilities and ensuring the tournament’s success. Motsepe lauded Kenya for hosting the