Morocco secured their third African Nations Championship title thanks to Lamlioui scoring twice in the match.

In the heart of the Kenyan capital, the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) took centre stage as Morocco and Madagascar faced off in a highly anticipated semi-final match. The North African country, which last hosted the tournament in 1988, was eager to make a mark in the 2021 edition.

The match began with a surprise as Madagascar's Felicite Manohatsoa scored in the 9th minute, putting the underdogs in the lead. However, Morocco responded swiftly, with Youssef Mehri levelling the score just 18 minutes later.

As the first half drew to a close, Berkane forward Lamlioui scored to give Morocco the lead, sending the capacity crowd, predominantly supporting Morocco, into a frenzy. The second half saw an evenly matched contest, with the score remaining 2-2 until the 80th minute, when Lamlioui scored again, securing Morocco's lead.

In the dying moments of extra time, Toky Rakotondraibe, a substitute for Madagascar, scored to level the match once more. But it was Morocco who had the final say, with Rakotondraibe scoring the extra-time winner, securing Morocco's third Africa Cup of Nations title, following their victories in the 2018 and 2020 editions.

The victory marks a continuation of a great year for Moroccan football, with Moroccan youth sides winning the Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations and reaching the final of the Under-20 tournament in a recent year. Lamlioui, who finished the tournament as the top-scorer with six goals, was instrumental in Morocco's success.

Coach Walid Regragui, who has led Morocco to several titles in recent years, will be hoping to guide the team to even greater heights as they prepare to host the senior AFCON for the first time since 1988. The tournament is set to begin on December 21.

Morocco secured their third African Nations Championship title thanks to Lamlioui scoring twice in the match.