The African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 has reached its dramatic conclusion, culminating in a highly anticipated final between Morocco and Madagascar at Nairobi's Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on August 30th. This tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, has been hailed as a significant success, delivering memorable moments of grit, passion, and national pride, while also serving as a crucial preparatory ground for the upcoming AFCON 2027.

Morocco, the Atlas Lions, entered CHAN 2024 as formidable contenders, carrying the weight of expectation. Their journey to the final was marked by emphatic group stage victories over DR Congo (3–1) and Zambia (3–1), along with a solid 2–0 win against Angola. Their only group stage defeat came against hosts Kenya (0–1). In the knockout rounds, Morocco demonstrated composure and experience, securing a tense 1–0 quarterfinal win against Tanzania. They then faced defending champions Senegal in a nerve-wracking semifinal that ended 1–1 after extra time, with Morocco triumphing flawlessly in the penalty shootout. Led by midfielder Mohamed Rabie Hrimat and creative spark Youssef Mehri, and with forward Oussama Lamlioui leading the Golden Boot race with four goals, Morocco is chasing history – an unprecedented third CHAN crown in just seven years, having previously won in 2018 and 2020.

Madagascar’s journey, in contrast, has been a true fairy tale. Arriving with little fanfare, the Barea defied expectations with group stage wins over Central African Republic (2–0) and Burkina Faso (2–1). Their quarterfinal clash against hosts Kenya saw them hold out for a 1–1 draw before silencing Kasarani with a 4–3 penalty shootout victory, largely thanks to heroics from goalkeeper Michel “Toldo” Ramandimbisoa, who has been a standout performer with 25 saves and three clean sheets. The semifinal brought another dramatic chapter, where Toky Rakotondraibe scored in the 116th minute against Sudan to send Madagascar into their first-ever CHAN Final. Despite the suspension of two-goal hero Fenohasina Gilles Razafimaro, the team, supported by midfielder Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa, embodies belief and resilience, making their first CAF final a historic moment for the island nation.

The final match promises to be a clash of contrasting forces: Morocco's experience against Madagascar's unyielding belief. The tactical battle will see Morocco's midfield control, driven by Hrimat's passing and Mehri's runs, square off against Madagascar's potent counter-punches, with players like Rafanomezantsoa and Razafimaro exploiting space. Goalkeepers will also be in the spotlight, with Morocco’s El Mehdi Al Harrar providing reliability and Madagascar’s Ramandimbisoa delivering match-winning saves. The grandeur of the final is underscored by the expected attendance of VIPs, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CAF President Patrice Motsepe, President William Ruto, ODM leader Raila Odinga, and Madagascar’s President Andry Nirina Rajoelina. Pre-match entertainment will feature artists like Savara (Kenya), Zuchu (Tanzania), and Eddy Kenzo (Uganda), followed by a fireworks show.

Beyond the pitch, CHAN 2024 has been a testament to successful hosting, particularly for Kenya. Despite initial major delays in stadium constructions that forced postponements, the tournament ran smoothly with massive spectator turnout. Kenya was even fined by CAF for allowing crowds to breach capacity during home team matches at Kasarani, highlighting the immense fan enthusiasm. The use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for the first time in these countries was a significant technological advancement. Kenya's impressive run to the quarter-finals, a first in nearly 38 years for a continental tournament, captivated the nation. The organizers ensured a holistic experience, from cultural welcomes for teams, including visits to Nairobi National Park for Angola, to setting up fan zones across Nairobi in response to high demand and security needs. This successful staging positions Kenya as a strong contender for AFCON 2027, demonstrating its readiness in terms of infrastructure, security, and fan management.

For fans attending the final, strict guidelines have been issued to ensure safety and order. Motorists on Thika Road experienced disruptions, with various sections closed and diversions suggested. Fans were advised to arrive early as gates opened hours before kick-off, with security checks being tight. Only official CHAN tickets were accepted, and fans without tickets were encouraged to use official fan zones. Spectator behavior was emphasized as crucial, with warnings against pushing, throwing objects, or pitch invasion to avoid fines and protect Kenya’s reputation for future international events. Prohibited items included weapons, sharp objects, explosives, bottles, vuvuzelas, and outside food or drinks, encouraging fans to pack light and cheer loud, promoting discipline, pride, and unity.

Adding to the tournament's impactful narrative, Harambee Stars winger Boniface Muchiri, captain of KDF's Ulinzi Stars, was promoted to the rank of Corporal in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). This promotion from Senior Private was a direct recognition of his outstanding performance at CHAN 2024, where he provided two crucial assists during Kenya’s spirited run to the quarter-finals. The ceremony was presided over by Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri, following an appeal from Harambee Stars captain Abud Omar to President William Ruto. General Kahariri praised Muchiri’s exemplary discipline, commitment, and excellence, highlighting KDF's commitment to nurturing and rewarding talent within and beyond uniformed service. Muchiri, whose journey from Busia to a national team star and respected KDF member is a story of resilience, expressed profound gratitude, attributing his success and future plans to his mother's unwavering support. He intends to dedicate the over Sh5 million in rewards received from President William Ruto, Raila Odinga, and Sports CS Salim Mvurya to her, emphasizing the values of discipline and hard work instilled by the military and his family.

As the final whistle blows and the trophy is raised under the Nairobi night sky, whether Morocco claims a record third title or Madagascar achieves a historic upset, the CHAN 2024 final will not just crown a champion but will also celebrate Africa's unity, culture, and Kenya's successful hosting of a truly memorable football spectacle.