Morocco head coach Tarik Sektioui has hailed the passionate backing of Kenyan fans as a decisive factor in helping his team clinch their historic third African Nations Championship (CHAN) crown at the Kasarani Stadium.
The Atlas Lions triumphed 3–2 in a pulsating final against Madagascar, securing their third CHAN title and stamping their authority as the most successful nation in the competition’s history. With the Kasarani stands packed to capacity, Morocco fed off the electrifying energy, which the coach described as a true “12th man” moment.
Kenyan Fans as Morocco’s Boost
Having spent three weeks in Kenya during the month-long tournament, Morocco’s squad felt the warmth and hospitality of the local supporters. With Kenya eliminated by Madagascar in the quarter-finals, Kenyan fans shifted their allegiance to Morocco for the final, creating a sea of red-clad energy that pushed the Atlas Lions to victory.
Madagascar opened the scoring through Clavin Felicite Mantanosoa, igniting excitement among their traveling supporters. However, Morocco quickly responded, equalizing through Youssef Mehri before Oussama Lamlioui fired them ahead 2–1 at halftime.
In the second half, Madagascar refused to surrender and drew level in the 68th minute through T.N Rakotondraibe. But with the match heading towards extra time, Lamlioui stepped up once again. His thunderous strike from distance with just over 10 minutes to play sealed the contest, ensuring Morocco lifted the trophy in front of a jubilant crowd.
Golden Boot Glory and Historic Prize
Lamlioui’s brace not only secured victory but also confirmed his status as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals, earning him the coveted Golden Boot award. Morocco’s triumph was accompanied by a massive cash prize of KSh 455 million, a fitting reward for their flawless campaign.
Respect for Madagascar
Despite the victory, Sektioui emphasized that the win was not about revenge, even though Morocco had previously lost to Madagascar in the 2022 edition. He praised Madagascar’s remarkable run to the final, where they eliminated hosts Kenya and Sudan, and acknowledged that the island nation fully deserved their place in the showpiece.
Morocco’s road to glory included a semi-final victory over defending champions Senegal, underlining their dominance. With prior successes in 2018 and 2020, the Atlas Lions now stand alone as the only nation to lift the CHAN trophy three times, cementing their place in African football history.
