Kenya sealed top spot in CHAN 2024 Group A after edging Zambia 1-0 at Kasarani, while Morocco produced a ruthless second-half performance to beat DR Congo 3-1 at Nyayo and claim the second ticket to the quarter-finals.
The Harambee Stars, who had already secured qualification before the match, had to dig deep against a determined Zambia side that came into the game eager to salvage some pride despite being already out of contention.
For long periods, Kenya controlled possession and applied pressure, but Zambia defended stubbornly and frustrated their hosts.
The breakthrough finally came in the 75th minute when substitute Boniface Muchiri showed quick vision to thread a clever pass into the box.
Ryan Ogam, who has quickly become a reliable goal scorer for the Stars, showed composure as he controlled the ball perfectly before smashing it past the Zambian goalkeeper.
The stadium erupted with cheers, as the goal not only secured the win but also gave the home fans another reason to believe in the team’s journey at the tournament.
The victory reflected Kenya’s dominance throughout the group stage, with the team displaying confidence, discipline, and attacking flair.
Zambia, on the other hand, ended their campaign without a single point, a disappointing run that leaves many questions about their future plans.
Across town at Nyayo Stadium, Morocco and DR Congo were locked in a tense battle for the remaining quarter-final ticket. The first half ended 1-1, keeping both sets of fans on edge.
However, Morocco returned stronger after the break, showing their experience and composure in big matches.
In the 70th minute, Hrimat stepped up to calmly convert a penalty, giving Morocco the lead. DR Congo pushed forward in search of an equalizer, but in doing so left spaces at the back, which Morocco exploited.
Lamlioui delivered the killer blow with a fine finish after another swift team move, sealing a 3-1 victory and Morocco’s place in the last eight.
The final Group A standings saw Kenya on top with 10 points, Morocco second with nine, DR Congo finishing third with six, Angola collecting four, and Zambia bottom without a point.
For Kenya, topping the group was vital as it allowed them to avoid an early East African clash with Tanzania, setting up a more favorable quarter-final meeting with Madagascar.
Morocco, finishing second, now face Tanzania in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. DR Congo, despite entering the last day with a strong chance, paid the price for their late collapse and bowed out, while Angola and Zambia also missed out on the knockout rounds.
As the group stage ends, Kenya carry the hopes of the home crowd with dreams of making history in their debut CHAN campaign.
Morocco, seasoned campaigners, will look to revive their past continental glory. Both teams head into the quarter-finals with momentum, belief, and the hunger to go even further. For fans, the excitement only grows as the knockout battles begin.
