Morocco on Saturday secured a third African National Championship (CHAN) title after overcoming a resilient first-time finalists Madagascar 3-2 in a thrilling final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
In the final at the fully-packed stadium on Saturday, August 30, the Atlas Lions — champions in 2018 and 2020 — weathered a struborn Malagasy side to come out on top, in a match that saw a majority of home fans (Kenyans) support the North Africans.
The tournament’s top scorer Oussama Lamlaoui scored twice, including a spectacular 40-yard strike, to ensure that Morocco is prevailing. He finished the tournament with six goals.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently announced a 75 percent increase in prize money for CHAN 2024, with the total purse growing by 32 per cent compared to the previous edition.
While Kenya will bank Sh58 million for reaching the quarter finalists, the four semi-finalists are guaranteed at least Sh77 million.
The third-place finisher will pocket Sh90 million, the runners-up will take home Sh155 million, and the champions will walk away with a whopping Sh453 million, underscoring CAF’s drive to elevate the tournament’s profile.
Even teams eliminated in the group stage benefited.
Those finishing third in their groups earned Sh39 million, while fourth and fifth-placed sides went home with Sh26 million each.
For Kenya, the financial windfall provides a timely boost that many hope will be reinvested into strengthening the domestic league and nurturing grassroots talent.
Though the penalty heartbreak against Madagascar dashed hopes of a historic semi-final berth, Kenya’s spirited performances—marked by discipline, resilience, and flashes of attacking brilliance have renewed optimism.
With Sh58 million to show for their efforts and a rising profile in continental football, the Harambee Stars now have a strong foundation to build on ahead of upcoming regional and global qualifiers
