The stage is set for the grand finale of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024, which will be played this Saturday at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Morocco will be aiming to win a record third CHAN title, while debutants Madagascar are chasing a fairytale ending as they look to lift the trophy for the first time.
For the Atlas Lions, a win would cement their dominance in the competition. For Madagascar, victory would mark an extraordinary breakthrough as the first Southern African and island nation to be crowned champions.
Two-time winners Morocco arrived in Nairobi with history on their side. Coach Tarik Sektioui said his team is ready to deliver after navigating a tough tournament across three host countries—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
“Each match presents a different scenario with its details that make the difference. We are very confident about the outcome of this match,” Sektioui told journalists on Friday.
“To win this final, you have to be 100 percent ready at every level. Respecting your opponent means respecting yourself, but we have the means to succeed and win the final,” he added.
Midfielder Salaheddine Rahouli said the players are determined to bring the trophy home. “Winning this title for the third time is a source of pride for all of us. We are aware of the responsibility we bear and we hope to offer this third title to the Moroccan supporters.”
Madagascar’s run to the final has already been historic, but coach Romuald Rakotondrabe said his side is not in Nairobi just to participate.
“Morocco are the favourites; they are a big country in football. But Madagascar are not here by luck. We worked hard for our place and we want to show our worth,” he said.
With three players unavailable due to injury and suspension, Rakotondrabe said unity remains their greatest strength. “The secret to our success has been hard work. If we win, it will be like a dream come true. It will make the people of Madagascar happy because life is difficult there. They will know we have done something special.”
Captain Nantenaina Elysee Tony Randriamanampisoa added: “We are ready. Team spirit is high. We know Morocco is a good side, but we will compete to get a good result.”
Madagascar reached their first-ever CAF senior international final after Toky Rakotondraibe scored deep into extra time to beat Sudan 1-0 in the semi-finals.
Morocco, by contrast, are seasoned finalists, having won the title in 2018 and 2020. They reached the final after edging Senegal 5-3 on penalties in the semis.
Star striker Oussama Lamlaoui, the tournament’s top scorer with four goals, will lead Morocco’s attack, while Madagascar will rely on goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa—who has the most saves in the tournament—and playmaker Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa.
Both teams are disciplined, but Morocco’s experience gives them an edge. Still, Madagascar’s fearless counterattacking football and resilience in tight matches could spring a surprise.
The final will kick off at 6:00pm local time (3:00pm GMT) and will be preceded by a colourful closing ceremony featuring performances from Eddy Kenzo, Zuchu, and Savara, celebrating the cultural unity of the three co-host nations—Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya.
As the curtain falls on CHAN PAMOJA 2024, Africa awaits to see whether Morocco will extend their dominance or Madagascar will script one of the greatest fairytales in African football.
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