Marrakech – King Mohammed VI has sent a message of congratulations to Morocco’s local football team following their victory in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), marking their third title in the competition.
The monarch expressed his pride after watching Morocco clinch a 3-2 victory over first-time finalists Madagascar in Saturday’s pulsating final at the Moi International Stadium in Kasarani, Kenya.
“It is a source of joy and pride to extend our warm congratulations for this continental triumph, the third of its kind, which reinforces the exceptional continental achievements and performances recently accomplished by Moroccan football,” the sovereign wrote in his message.
The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, were tested to the limit by a spirited Malagasy side, but ultimately their pedigree and experience told.
Star striker Oussama Lamlaoui was once again the difference, scoring twice – including a spectacular 40-yard effort – to finish as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.
Victory earned Morocco the gold medal and $3.5-million prize money, while Madagascar’s gallant run ended in silver and a $1.2-million prize.
King Mohammed VI praised the collective efforts of the entire national team, including players, coaches, and technical, medical, and administrative staff, as well as the leadership of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation.
The monarch noted his appreciation for their “effective contributions imbued with the spirit of sincere patriotism” in securing this new African title. He stated that this achievement will undoubtedly serve as “a strong source of motivation for our various teams and sports clubs to move forward, imbued with the culture of victory, in order to win more titles.”
The Atlas Lions clinched their third CHAN title thanks to goals from Youssef Mehri (27th minute) and Oussama Lamlaoui, who scored a decisive double (44th and 80th minutes), including a spectacular match-winning goal from midfield.
Madagascar had taken an early lead through Félicité Mantasoa (9th minute) and later equalized through Toky Rakotondraibe (68th minute).
With this victory, Morocco has made history as the first team to win three CHAN titles, surpassing the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has two championships to its name.
The triumph is particularly significant given the challenging preparation and journey the team experienced throughout the tournament, which was jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
This championship adds to Morocco’s recent football achievements, including a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, a silver medal at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), and the U17 Africa Cup of Nations championship, confirming the country’s rising status in African football.
The sovereign concluded his message by reiterating his congratulations to the national team for their well-deserved victory and praying for their continued success in their promising sporting careers, while assuring them of his “solicitude and benevolence.”
