Morocco cemented their dominance of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) by defeating Madagascar 3-2 in a pulsating final on Saturday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

The Atlas Lions, champions in 2018 and 2020, leaned on their pedigree, experience, and the brilliance of star striker Oussama Lamlaoui, who scored twice to finish as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals. His audacious 40-yard strike, which caught goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa off his line, proved the defining moment of the 2025 edition.

The spectacular effort sealed Morocco’s gold medal and the $3.5 million prize money, while debutant finalists Madagascar earned silver and $1.2 million for their fairytale run.

How the final unfolded

Lamlaoui opened the scoring inside the first 15 minutes, latching onto a Youssef Mehri pass. Madagascar struck back through Toky Rakotondraibe, but Morocco quickly restored their lead before the break when Sabir Bougrine finished clinically, again assisted by Mehri.

Lamlaoui’s wonder goal extended the Atlas Lions’ advantage in the second half, but Madagascar refused to bow out quietly. Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa pulled one back late on, setting up a tense finale. Despite a late flurry of pressure and two stoppage-time corners, Morocco’s defence held firm.

A historic milestone

The result makes Morocco the most successful team in CHAN history with three titles in just six years, underlining their dominance of the tournament.