The TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A fixture between Morocco and Kenya promises to be far more than a routine contest. It is a high-stakes encounter pitting a seasoned continental powerhouse against a host nation riding the crest of passionate home support.
For Morocco, the task is straightforward win and edge closer to the knockout stages. Head coach Tarik Sektioui has made his intentions clear, stressing that every point counts at this stage.
“Our main objective is to get through the first round and that means a victory against Kenya,” Sektioui stated, adding that his side will approach the clash with “the same will and determination” that earned them a 2-0 opening win over Angola.
This will be the Atlas Lions’ first-ever CHAN meeting with Kenya, but history is on their side. Morocco remains unbeaten against East African sides, with three wins and two draws, and have built a reputation for spoiling the party for tournament hosts notably dismantling Rwanda 4-1 in 2016 and Cameroon 4-0 in the 2020 semi-finals.
Still, Sektioui is wary of the challenge, especially against a Kenyan side that has impressed so far with a 1-0 win over DR Congo and a goalless draw against Angola. Winger Oussama Lamlioui acknowledged the test ahead, admitting the Kenyan crowd will add extra fuel to the hosts’ game but insisting Morocco is ready to “make the difference” and secure three points.
Kenya, under head coach Benni McCarthy, are equally motivated. McCarthy, who scored against Morocco in the 1998 AFCON, knows the scale of the task.
“Morocco is a strong and well-organized team. It will be a tough match against one of the best teams not only in our group, but in the league,” he said.
Kenya’s star man, Austin Odhiambo, has been pivotal, scoring both of their goals so far and becoming the first Kenyan to score in consecutive CAF senior matches. However, fatigue could be a factor, with the hosts having played just two days earlier compared to Morocco’s week-long rest.
With Morocco’s pedigree and Kenya’s home roar colliding, this match is shaping up to be a defining moment in Group A one that could tilt the balance of the entire tournament.
