Saturday’s TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 final in Nairobi is set to crown a champion and inspire legends. Morocco, the two-time winners, will take on Madagascar, the surprising underdogs whose incredible journey has captured the hearts of the continent. These are the two key players to watch from the Moroccan side.
Morocco’s Sharp Edge: Oussama Lamlioui
At only 26 years old, Oussama Lamlioui has ascended to become one of the most feared strikers in CHAN 2024. With an impressive tally of four goals and a standout performance against DR Congo, he has proven to be Morocco’s most lethal offensive weapon.
Renowned for his knack for capitalizing on scoring opportunities, Lamlioui is a master in the penalty area, combining agility with power. Whether it’s a blistering run that evades multiple defenders or a soaring header that catches opponents off guard, his poise in front of goal has solidified his reputation as a relentless forward.
Coach Sektioui has aptly described Lamlioui as “a silent leader who communicates through his actions on the pitch and possesses the unique ability to alter the course of a match.” For Madagascar’s defenders, alongside their valiant goalkeeper Toldo, the daunting task of keeping Lamlioui in check could very well turn out to be the hardest assignment of their careers.
The Brain Behind the Roar: Youssef Belammari
While Lamlioui is the figure who finds the back of the net, it is Youssef Belammari who orchestrates Morocco’s attack from midfield. At 27 years of age, this talented midfielder has already notched two assists, but his true impact lies in his deep understanding of the game.
Belammari is skilled at dictating the rhythm of play, weaving vertical passes that slice through defenses, and seamlessly balancing his defensive duties with the creative impetus necessary to ignite counterattacks. Often overlooked, Belammari is the quiet architect behind Morocco’s offensive strategies, crafting opportunities from the shadows.
His impending clash with Madagascar’s Nicolas Randriamanampisoa could prove critical. If Belammari can carve out the space and tempo to unleash his creativity, Lamlioui will undoubtedly be ready to convert those chances into goals, further propelling Morocco’s aspirations in the tournament.
