Morocco have written their name deeper into African football history after sealing a record third African Nations Championship (CHAN) title with a dramatic 3-2 win over Madagascar in Nairobi on Sunday.
Played at the electric Kasarani Stadium, the final lived up to its billing as Madagascar, featuring in their first-ever continental final, pushed the Atlas Lions all the way before falling to a late moment of brilliance.
Madagascar stunned the crowd in the ninth minute when Felicite *โFelyโ* Manohantsoa unleashed a long-range strike that flew past the Moroccan goalkeeper. But the North Africans responded with authority, Youssef Mehri rising highest to head home the equaliser in the 27th minute.
Momentum swung Moroccoโs way just before the interval. Oussama Lamlioui pounced on a loose ball inside the box to put his side 2-1 up, sending the defending champions into the break on top.
The underdogs, however, refused to fade. Toky Rakotondraibe brought Madagascar level in the 68th minute with a well-taken finish that silenced the Moroccan bench and reignited belief among the island nationโs supporters.
But with ten minutes left, Lamlioui delivered the decisive blow of the tournament. Spotting goalkeeper Michel *โToldoโ* Ramandimbisoa off his line, the Moroccan midfielder unleashed a sensational 50-yard strike that sailed into the net โ a goal worthy of winning any final.
That wonder strike sealed a 3-2 triumph for Morocco, who now stand alone as the only nation to have won the CHAN title three times. For Madagascar, it was heartbreak but also a proud moment, as they marked their first appearance in a major African final with a performance that won admiration across the continent.
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