Under the electric lights of Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, the 2024/2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN 2025) delivered a final for the ages on August 30, 2025. Morocco, the Atlas Lions, roared to a record third title, clinching a 3-2 victory over debutants Madagascar in a match that crackled with tension and brilliance. Indeed, a late goal turned the tide, etching Morocco’s name in history.
Consequently, the knockout stages, spanning quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final, showcased African football’s raw passion. This solidified CHAN’s role as a breeding ground for domestic talent.
Moroccans love to score!
When the title is Moroccan, so is the top scorer. Every time. ⚽#TotalEnergiesCHAN2024 pic.twitter.com/90Kmm2OwZA
The quarter-finals ignited the tournament’s unpredictability. Madagascar surged past opponents with counterattacking flair, earning a historic semi-final berth. Meanwhile, Morocco’s precision overcame challengers. However, these matches tested every team’s resolve. They set the stage for high-stakes battles.
In the semi-finals, Morocco faced Senegal in a 1-1 draw that stretched into extra time. Their 5-3 penalty shootout win showcased nerves of steel. Similarly, Madagascar defeated Sudan 1-0 in extra time, with Toky Rakotondraibe’s 116th-minute goal stealing the spotlight. Thus, both teams carried momentum into the final.
The final was a five-goal thriller. Madagascar struck first in the ninth minute through Felicite Manohantsoa’s long-range effort. Youssef Mehri equalized in the 27th minute, breaking through the defense. Oussama Lamlaoui put Morocco ahead before halftime, but Rakotondraibe leveled at 2-2 in the 68th minute. Ultimately, Lamlaoui’s 40-yard lob with 10 minutes left sealed the 3-2 win, earning Morocco the $3.5 million prize.
CHAN 2025 Prize Structure
CAF’s prize pool rose 32% to $10.4 million, rewarding knockout stage teams generously. Morocco claimed $3.5 million as champions, Madagascar earned $1.2 million as runners-up, semi-finalists received $500,000, and quarter-finalists got $400,000. Moreover, these incentives fueled fierce competition. They boosted CHAN’s prestige across Africa.
The quarter-finals highlighted underdog stories, with Madagascar’s rise captivating audiences. Morocco’s disciplined approach ensured their advance. The intensity of these clashes showcased domestic talent. For instance, strategic substitutions proved crucial in tight matches.
The semi-finals heightened the drama, with penalty heroics and late goals shaping the final’s path. Madagascar’s upset over Sudan stunned viewers, while Morocco’s composure prevailed. As a result, the final pitted experience against ambition. It drew global attention.
Moroccans love to score!
When the title is Moroccan, so is the top scorer. Every time. ⚽#TotalEnergiesCHAN2024 pic.twitter.com/90Kmm2OwZA
CHAN 2025’s knockout stages celebrated African football’s vibrancy. Morocco’s third title, matching their 2018 and 2020 wins, capped a stellar year after their youth teams’ Under-17 AFCON triumph and Under-20 final run. With AFCON 2027 looming, CHAN 2025’s legacy urges investment in domestic leagues. Ultimately, Morocco’s victory and Madagascar’s remarkable debut signal a bright future.
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