CHAN: Morocco knew it would be tactical battle against Madagascar – Sektioui

Morocco head coach Tarik Sektioui has explained how losing to co-hosts Kenya in the group stages sparked his side to lift the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) in East Africa.

After kicking off their Group A campaign with an inspiring 2-0 victory over a strong Angolan side, the Atlas Lions suffered a 1-0 defeat against Harambee Stars in their matchday two fixture at Kasarani Stadium.

“That game showed us that in CHAN there is no room for distractions. We had to return to basics: organisation, patience, and efficiency,” said Sektioui.

Morocco went ahead to lift a record third CHAN crown after edging Madagascar 3-2 in a thrilling final at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Saturday. The Atlas Lions, already champions in 2018 and 2020, were once again inspired by star forward Oussama Lamlaoui, whose brace — including a stunning 40-yard winner — sealed their place in history.

“We knew it would be a tactical battle. We played with our heads, because at this stage the mind matters as much as the legs,” he added.

Morocco star Lamliou, who scored a brace against the island nation in the final, said: “I thank the Moroccan supporters immensely. We told them to trust us, and we’ve proved now that we were worthy of that trust.

“This is thanks to the efforts of my teammates,” Lamlioui stressed. “Without them, I would never have reached this stage. We’ve entered history after winning three CHAN titles. We dedicate this trophy to His Majesty King Mohammed VI.”

By winning CHAN 2024, Morocco became the most successful team in the competition’s history, surpassing DR Congo’s two titles.

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