Dar es Salaam. The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) concluded thrillingly on Saturday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Nairobi, leaving behind a wave of optimism for co-hosts Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, who will also jointly stage the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.
The tournament ended with Morocco clinching their third CHAN title after edging past Madagascar 3-2 in a dramatic final.
Morocco, who had earlier eliminated Tanzania in the quarter-finals with a 1-0 win, became the most successful nation in the history of CHAN, surpassing DR Congo.
This was the first time the competition was hosted in East Africa, with matches spread across five stadiums, including Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa and Amaan stadiums.
A total of 44 matches were played, producing 90 goals, an average of 2.05 goals per game, slightly higher than the previous edition in Algeria (1.9), where Senegal were crowned champions.
Morocco’s Record Triumph
Forward Oussama Lamlaoui emerged as Morocco’s hero, scoring twice in the final, including a stunning 40-yard strike, to finish as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.
His brilliance sealed Morocco’s golden medals and a cash prize of $3.5 million (over Sh8.6 billion), while Madagascar earned silver medals and $1.2 million (over Sh2.8 billion).
In the final, Madagascar took an early lead in the 9th minute through Felicite Manohantsoa, but Morocco quickly responded via Youssef Mehri before Lamlaoui put them ahead.
Madagascar fought back in the second half when Toky Rakotondraibe capitalized on defensive errors to equalize, only for Lamlaoui to strike again with a wonder goal near the halfway line.
Despite defeat, Madagascar made history as the first island nation to ever reach a CAF final.
Player of the Tournament
Morocco’s captain, Mohamed Rabie Hrimat, was named the Player of the Tournament.
The 31-year-old midfielder was instrumental in leading his side from the group stage to the final, scoring twice and providing two assists.
His leadership and composure in difficult moments helped Morocco recover even after their only defeat of the tournament, a 1-0 group stage loss to hosts Kenya.
Top Scorer
Speaking after receiving the Golden Boot, Lamlaoui expressed his gratitude: “I thank the Moroccan fans so much. We asked them to believe in us, and now we’ve shown we deserved that trust.”
His decisive 80th-minute goal sealed Morocco’s third CHAN crown following their earlier successes in 2018 and 2020. He added:
“This is a result of teamwork. Without my teammates, we wouldn’t have reached this stage. We dedicate this title to His Majesty King Mohammed VI.”
Best Goalkeeper
Senegal’s Marc Philippe Arona Diouf was awarded the Best Goalkeeper accolade after inspiring his side to a bronze medal.
In the third-place playoff against Sudan, Diouf’s heroics shone. After Sudan went ahead through Mohamed Tia Asad, Seyni Ndiaye equalized for Senegal, taking the game to penalties.
Diouf saved Sudan’s second spot-kick, helping Senegal win 4-2 in the shootout.
Having started every match for Senegal, he proved a key figure in a youthful squad led by coach Souleymane Diallo.
Senegal were also honored with the Fair Play award for discipline, integrity, and respect.
Host Nations’ Records
The host nations exceeded expectations as all three advanced to the quarter-finals.
Kenya, drawn in Group A, stunned many by defeating Morocco 1-0 and topping the group with 10 points.
Tanzania’s Taifa Stars made history as the first team to qualify for the quarter-finals with a game to spare, collecting nine points after victories over Burkina Faso (2-0), Madagascar (2-1), and Mauritania (1-0).
Their final group match against the Central African Republic (0-0) was a formality.
Uganda, despite losing 3-0 to Algeria in their opener, bounced back strongly to finish top of Group C with seven points.
Achievements
CHAN 2024 was widely praised for its technical quality, organization, and stakeholder collaboration.
From the group stage to the final, the tournament showcased high standards on the pitch, while the five selected stadiums were upgraded to an international level.
Governments and organizers worked hand in hand to ensure smooth operations, particularly in areas of security and event management, leaving visiting teams and international fans with a positive impression.
Technology also played a key role, with the use of VAR, player tracking systems, and advanced broadcast tools enhancing transparency and fairness throughout the competition.
For East Africa, the success of CHAN 2024 sent a strong message about the region’s capacity to host international events, raising expectations for AFCON 2027.
Challenges
However, the tournament was not without challenges.
Both Tanzania and Kenya were fined by CAF for breaches of safety regulations, which affected the management of some matches.
Issues included crowd control, provision of essential equipment, and training of security personnel.
At times, coordination between CAF, national federations, and governments required urgent clarification, underlining the need for stronger structures in future tournaments.
These challenges highlighted the importance of upgrading infrastructure, security protocols, and organizational efficiency ahead of AFCON 2027.
Yet, they also provided valuable lessons for improvement.
Way Forward
To ensure the success of AFCON 2027, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda must begin preparations early.
This includes upgrading stadiums, investing in modern infrastructure, and assembling competitive national teams.
Equally important will be marketing and communication strategies to attract global fans and stakeholders, which can boost the tournament’s profile and economic benefits for the region.
CHAN 2024 will be remembered not only for Morocco’s record-breaking triumph but also as a turning point for East Africa, demonstrating both the potential and responsibility of hosting continental football on the grandest stage.
