Morocco emerged champions of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after edging surprise finalists Madagascar 3-2 in a thrilling contest in Nairobi.
The win capped off a month of pulsating football that showcased some of the continent’s finest home-based talent. From dramatic late winners to defensive masterclasses, CHAN 2024 was a celebration of African football at its raw and exciting best.
Footy-Africa.com decided to have a closer look at the five standout performers from the tournament, with insights from Rivers United assistant manager and former Nigeria U-17 coach Olanrewaju Daniel, who gave his verdict on the competition’s brightest stars.
Oussama Lamlaoui, Morocco
Morocco’s forward Oussama Lamlaoui delivered a tournament to remember. The striker needed a brace on Matchday five to secure Morocco’s progression, and from there, he never looked back. With an incredible six goals, Lamlaoui not only won the Golden Boot but also cemented himself in CHAN folklore with a brilliant strike in the final.
His movement in the box, lightning reaction speed, and natural finishing instincts drew comparisons to Ayoub El Kaabi’s breakout CHAN 2018 campaign. Lamlaoui now stands firmly in Morocco’s rich tradition of tournament strikers, following in the footsteps of El Kaabi and Soufiane Rahimi.
Daniel: “I remember how Ayoub El Kaabi came into the scene in the 2018 edition, which is almost the same as Lamlaoui. This guy is a very good striker with an eye for goal, like the one he scored in the final against Madagascar. He will be remembered for a long time to come. I would have said he is the best player of the tournament, but I’ll give that to his captain.”
Clement Mzize, Tanzania
One of the breakout stars of CHAN 2024, Clement Mzize was a powerhouse up front for Tanzania. The burly striker used his strength, pace, and balance to torment defenders throughout the tournament, showcasing not just his eye for goal but also his vision to create chances for teammates.
Mzize’s performances have sparked speculation that he could soon leave the Tanzanian league for a bigger stage.
Daniel: “For me, he was the best Tanzanian player in the CHAN tournament as he did well for the hosts, even though they didn’t get to the final. He has pace and is a powerful forward who will surely come big in the future. Even though I still think of other strikers, Mzize impressed me with his work rate and tireless running.”
Mohammed Hrimat, Morocco
Morocco’s captain Mohammed Hrimat was the heartbeat of the champions’ midfield. Dictating play from deep, the ASFAR playmaker expertly broke up attacks and launched transitions with pinpoint passing.
His leadership and influence were instrumental in Morocco’s triumph, earning him the Player of the Tournament award.
Daniel: “Strong in defence for the winners and has a big heart in my opinion. He showed why he is highly rated back in Morocco with some outstanding displays. Hrimat deservedly won the Player of the Tournament as his team lifted the title. I appreciate his leadership qualities and the way he communicates with his defenders. He had a very good tournament.”
Byron Omondi, Kenya
Kenya’s shot-stopper, Byron Omondi, announced himself as one of the continent’s finest emerging goalkeepers. Twice, he kept his side in matches while down to ten men, making 11 saves in each game against Angola and Morocco.
The Harambee Stars finished with three clean sheets, thanks largely to Omondi’s sharp reflexes and composure.
Daniel: “He had a very decent tournament for Kenya, and I’m sure Benni McCarthy will be looking more at him for the main squad. He was unarguably Kenya’s best performer. He’s another goalkeeper who impressed me, and I’m hoping to see him on the bigger stage.”
Michel Ramandimbisoa, Madagascar
At 39, Michel Ramandimbisoa, better known across Africa as ‘Toldo’, was one of the stories of CHAN 2024. The veteran goalkeeper led Madagascar’s incredible run to the final, making crucial saves and keeping three clean sheets during the tournament. His seven-save performance against Burkina Faso in the knockouts was one of the best goalkeeping displays of the competition.
Daniel: “For me, he was the goalkeeper of the tournament on sentimental grounds because he did well to keep his country in the tournament. He also did well during the knockout stages, and I am sure that he will get a bigger club very soon. I like him for his quick thinking and sharp reflexes.”
Again and again! 🔄
Toldo clinches his second straight TotalEnergies Man of the Match award. 😮💨#TotalEnergiesCHAN2024 | @Football2gether pic.twitter.com/6fuvb6JZr9
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) August 16, 2025
CHAN 2024 may have ended with Morocco lifting their third title, but the tournament will be remembered for players like Lamlaoui, Mzize, Hrimat, Omondi, and Toldo, who lit up the competition and proved that African football is thriving both at home and abroad.
