The final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 took place on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, pitting Madagascar against Morocco. This highly anticipated match offered a top-level spectacle, ending with a 3-2 victory for Morocco over valiant Malagasy players, securing their third title in this flagship African football competition.
At the center of this exceptional duel, Cameroonian refereeing shone with Abdoul Mefiré, a young 29-year-old referee, appointed to officiate this final. Hailing from Foumbot, this continental refereeing prodigy has already proven himself by refereeing, notably, the U20 AFCON final between Morocco and Egypt. His selection by the African Football Confederation (CAF) for this role is a true testament of trust and elevates Cameroon in this domain, despite the absence of its national team in the competition.
Abdoul Mefiré spoke about this achievement with humility and pride: « Being chosen to officiate this final is a tremendous honor and a great source of pride, given the importance of the event. Pressure naturally exists at the end of the competition, but it is also a sign of confidence. We hold the key to conclude the tournament in the best way possible. We must ensure to leave a positive image of this competition for Africa and the world. » He was accompanied by a full Cameroonian officiating team, with Carine Atezambong as VAR and Menye Mpele as assistant referee, embodying a strong and professional presence.
The final itself was spectacular, marked by the performance of Moroccan Oussama Lamlaoui, the tournament’s top scorer with six goals, including a sublime 40-meter goal. Madagascar, playing their first final in this competition, showed courage and promising talent, thrilling spectators until the final minute. This historic moment, under the technical supervision of a promising Cameroonian referee, clearly illustrates the emergence of new forces in African football, both on the field and in officiating.