Morocco, Madagascar To Clash In Historic CHAN PAMOJA Final

The curtain will fall on the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 this Saturday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, where Morocco and Madagascar will battle for continental glory.

Two-time champions Morocco will attempt to secure a record third title, while debutants Madagascar dream of completing a remarkable fairytale journey with their first-ever senior continental crown.

The Atlas Lions arrive in Nairobi with both history and expectation on their side.

Head coach Tarik Sektioui expressed confidence in his squad ahead of the decisive clash:

“Each match presents a different scenario with its details that make the difference. We are very confident about the outcome of this match. To win this final, you have to be 100 percent ready at every level.”

Sektioui also highlighted his side’s resilience, having travelled across all three co-host nations — Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda — during the competition.

Midfielder Salaheddine Rahouli echoed the sentiment:

“We came to CHAN to play the final and we are fully determined to bring the trophy back to Morocco. Winning this title for the third time will be a great source of pride.”

For Madagascar, reaching the final is already historic. The Barea became the 13th nation to reach a CHAN final after edging Sudan 1-0 in the semi-final, with Toky Rakotondraibe scoring in extra time.

Head coach Romuald Rakotondrabe insists his team will fight to the very end:

“Morocco are favourites, but Madagascar are not here by luck. We worked hard for our place. We will compete strongly because we are here on merit.”

Despite injuries and suspensions, Rakotondrabe emphasised unity and resilience as the key to Madagascar’s journey:

“If we win, it will be like a dream come true, bringing joy to our people back home.”

Captain Nantenaina Elysee Tony Randriamanampisoa added:

“We are ready. Team spirit is high. Morocco are strong, but we will give everything to achieve a good result.”

Morocco are seasoned CHAN finalists, having triumphed in 2018 (4-0 vs Nigeria) and 2020 (2-0 vs Mali).

Their semi-final victory over Senegal came via penalties, showcasing their composure under pressure.

Madagascar, meanwhile, are making their first appearance in a CAF senior final.

Their unbeaten run and fearless counterattacking play have made them the story of the tournament.

The CHAN 2024 Final kicks off on Saturday, 30 August at 18:00 local time (15:00 GMT) at Kasarani Stadium.

Fans will also be treated to a colourful closing ceremony, featuring performances from Eddy Kenzo (Uganda), Zuchu (Tanzania), and Savara (Kenya), celebrating the cultural pride of the three host nations.

Whether Morocco’s coronation as record champions or Madagascar’s fairytale triumph, history will be written in Nairobi.

Sports247.ng