Harambee Stars delivered a memorable night at a packed Kasarani Stadium, defeating the highly rated Atlas Lions of Morocco 1–0 in a thrilling Group A encounter.
The result put Kenya in control of their own fate, with one game left and a place in the quarterfinals firmly within reach.
The victory was made even more remarkable by the fact that Kenya played much of the match with 10 men after Chrisphine Erambo was sent off in the first half for a dangerous challenge, following a long VAR review.
Despite the setback, the Kenyan side showed discipline, grit, and determination to hold off a relentless Moroccan attack.
The decisive moment came in the 35th minute when Ryan Wesley Ogam, starting in place of his usual role on the bench, latched onto a chance and fired past Moroccan goalkeeper Al Harrar.
The goal sent the stadium into wild celebrations as fans cheered on the underdogs who had just taken the lead against one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
Coach Benni McCarthy responded to the red card by bringing on defensive midfielder Alpha Onyango for Edward Omondi Otieno, shoring up the midfield and protecting the backline.
Morocco’s coach, Tarek Sektioui, attempted to turn the tide by introducing Sabir Bougrine for Mohamed Moufid and later adding Youssef Mehri to inject pace into the attack.
Mehri almost made an immediate impact in the second half when his curling shot missed the target by inches, with Kenyan goalkeeper Bryne Omondi beaten.
McCarthy had made several bold changes to the starting lineup from the side that drew 1–1 with Angola. Ogam was rewarded with a starting role, Mohammed Siraj of Bandari was handed his first start of the championship, and Lewis Bandi came into the defense.
Skipper Abud Omar and Alphonce Omija were left on the bench as part of the tactical shake-up. The opening 10 minutes saw Morocco control possession and press high, but once Kenya found their rhythm, they matched their opponents in both intensity and aggression.
The home crowd played a huge role, roaring with every challenge and willing the team forward.In the second half, Boniface Muchiri produced a powerful run into the Moroccan box, drawing what looked like a penalty after being pushed to the ground.
The referee initially pointed to the spot, but after another VAR review, the decision was overturned by Vincent Kabore, sparking frustration among the Kenyan fans.
Still, Harambee Stars held their ground, defending with everything they had until the final whistle. The win earned each player and technical team member KSh1 million, a reward pledged earlier by President William Ruto.
Having already beaten DR Congo and drawn with Angola, Kenya now sits in a strong position ahead of their final group game against Zambia at Kasarani next Sunday. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric from start to finish, with chants, cheers, and dances fueling the players.
For Harambee Stars, this was more than just a win it was a statement that they can stand toe-to-toe with Africa’s finest and emerge victorious.
