The African Nations Championship is set for a dramatic climax, with Morocco and Madagascar squaring off in the 2024 CHAN final at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre on Saturday, August 30.
Kick-off is at 16:00 (WAT), as the continent braces for the crowning of a new champion.
This year’s competition began with 19 nations, each battling to etch their name into history. Now, only two remain.
Morocco, already two-time winners, are seeking a third continental crown to cement their dominance. Madagascar, meanwhile, are chasing a maiden title in what has been a remarkable run to the final.
The Atlas Lions booked their place after eliminating holders Senegal in a tense semi-final in Kampala. After a 1-1 draw—Joseph Layousse scoring for the champions before Sabir Bougrine equalised—Morocco held their nerve in the shootout, converting all five penalties to secure a 5-3 win.
Madagascar’s road was equally dramatic. Facing Sudan in Dar es Salaam, Romuald Rakotondrabe’s side required extra time before substitute Toky Rakotondraibe struck in the 116th minute, sealing a 1-0 victory and a first-ever CHAN final for the island nation.
Their resilience and defensive discipline have been hallmarks of this fairytale campaign.
Before Saturday’s final, the focus shifts briefly to the third-place play-off on Friday, August 29, where Senegal meet Sudan. Both sides, having narrowly missed out on the decider, are determined to end on the podium.
The Moi International Sports Centre, also known as Kasarani Stadium, provides a fitting stage for the showdown.
With its 55,000 capacity and history of hosting major continental events, the venue promises an electric atmosphere as Africa’s latest champions are crowned.
For Morocco, the mission is legacy. For Madagascar, it is history in the making. One will leave Nairobi as continental kings.
