Pomp and colour as Ruto, FIFA boss hand Morocco CHAN trophy after triumph

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President William Ruto and FIFA President Gianni Infantino presided over the awarding ceremony of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Kasarani Stadium on Saturday evening, handing Morocco the coveted trophy after their dramatic 3-2 win over Madagascar.

The Atlas Lions lifted the title for a record third time, sparking wild celebrations in the stands and on the pitch.

The final, played before a packed stadium, saw Madagascar draw first blood through Félicité Mantasoa, but Morocco roared back with goals from Youssef Mehri and Oussama Lamlioui before halftime.

The islanders equalised late in the second half, only for Morocco to seal the victory with a decisive third goal that silenced their opponents.

In a colourful post-match ceremony marked by fireworks, song, and dance, President Ruto and Infantino jointly handed the trophy to the jubilant Moroccan side.

“Kenya is proud to be part of this historic moment,” Ruto said, praising the three co-hosts—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—for delivering what he described as a world-class tournament. “This success proves Africa can host global football events with excellence.”

Infantino lauded the spirited competition and thanked the organisers, noting that the East African co-hosting milestone had set a strong foundation for AFCON 2027. “The atmosphere in Kasarani tonight is proof of football’s power to unite people,” he said.

The victory marked Morocco’s third CHAN title, cementing their dominance in the continental competition.

Fans at Kasarani, many draped in Moroccan flags, erupted into chants as the team lifted the trophy under a shower of confetti.

The tournament, co-hosted across Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Kampala, was hailed as a landmark achievement for East African football, with the final leaving an indelible mark on the region’s sporting history.

President William Ruto, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and other officials present the CHAN 2024 trophy to Morocco after their victory at Kasarani Stadium on Saturday, August 30. /PSC