Debutant Kenya Stuns Morocco to Edge Closer to CHAN Quarterfinals
NAIROBI, Kenya — In a major upset at the African Nations Championship (CHAN), co-host Kenya defeated two-time champion Morocco 1-0 on Sunday despite playing the entire second half with 10 men.
The victory puts Kenya on the verge of a historic quarterfinal appearance, while Morocco’s chances of progressing now depend on their remaining two group matches.
Morocco, known as the Atlas Lions, started strong with a 2-0 win over Angola in Group A and created an early chance within 10 minutes when Riahi’s header struck the post but was cleared off the line.
Despite only 37 percent possession, Kenya was energized by the home crowd and took the lead three minutes before halftime through a stylish finish by Ogam.
The final whistle confirmed not only a famous victory for Kenya but also one of the biggest shocks in CHAN history, as the co-host amassed seven points from three matches.
Kenya now faces Zambia on August 17, with a win securing top spot in Group A. Even a draw could be enough for Kenya to advance.
Morocco, with three points from two matches, must beat Zambia on August 14 to keep its hopes for title defense alive.
