By Satish Sekar © Satish Sekar (August 30^th 2025)

Historic

Oussama Lamlioui scored a brace, including the winner, to steer the Atlas Lions to their historic third CHAN title in a thrilling 3-3 win over Romuald Rakotondrabe’s Barrea.

After 9 minutes Calvin Felicité Manohantsoa gave the underdog Malagasy the lead from distance – Mika Razafimahatana provided the assist, but the Atlas Lions equalised through Youssef Mehri with nearly half an hour played.

Berkane forward, Lamlioui, – very much part of Tariq Sektioui’s plans, gave Morocco the lead before half time. Toky Rakotondraibe equalised, raising hopes of a famous upset, but with extra time looming Lamlioui it a 40 metres stunner past a helpless ‘Toldo’.

Meanwhile, Lamlioui won the Golden Boot with 6 goals and the Man of the Match award. Mohamed Rabie Hrimat, captain of the Atlas Lions received the CHAN trophy and the Player of the Tournament Award. Despite his heroics for the Barrea, Toldo did not win the Golden Glove, Sénégal’s Marc Diouf did.

The Atlas Lions made history – the first nation to win the CHAN thrice. The Barrea also made history – it was their best ever finish in an African tournament.