President William has congratulated Morocco on their victory in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
In his statement, sent shortly after the winners were crowned, President Ruto stated that the North Africans deserved the win after a remarkable run that landed them in the finals for a record third time.
“Congratulations, Morocco, on winning the CHAN 2024 Championship. This is a well-earned victory,” he stated.
He further hailed the championships for fostering unity among football fans across the country and the continent, especially the nations that qualified for this year’s face-off.
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According to the head of state, the three co-hosts, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, have picked important lessons that will be vital for the three nations as they prepare to again host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, another continental event.
“We take to heart the lessons of co-hosting this tournament, and we will use them to sharpen our preparation for AFCON 2027,” he stated.
Atlas Lions made history as the only team to have lifted the CHAN trophy three times in the eight editions of the competition.
Morocco beat finals debutants Madagascar 3-2 to claim the title.
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also lauded Morocco for the fete and hailed the East African co-host for a successful month-long cooperation, terming it a “model of regional partnership”.
However, it is Sudan who received a special mention from the AUC boss after reaching the semi-finals stage before getting edged out by Senegal on penalties during their clash to determine the tournament’s third-place team and winner of the bronze.
“A beacon of hope”, he said of the Sudanese for showing much resilience and stunning performances despite the prolonged war back home.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe were among football executives who attended the match played at Moi International Sport Centre in Kasarani, Nairobi.