Favourites Morocco begin CHAN 2024 with solid 2-0 win over Angola
Sports
By
Robert Abongo
| Aug 03, 2025
Morocco kicked off their CHAN 2024 campaign in confident fashion, securing a 2-0 win over Angola at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium on Saturday. A composed finish from Imad Riahi and a late own goal by Angola defender Kinito ensured the North Africans walked away with all three points in their Group A opener.
In the same group, hosts Kenya edged DR Congo 1-0 in a tight contest, courtesy of a decisive strike from Allan Odhiambo just before half-time.
Morocco Take Control
The match between Morocco and Angola began cautiously, with both teams showing early signs of caution. The breakthrough came in the 29th minute when captain Rabie Hrimat picked out Imad Riahi with a precise through ball, and the forward calmly slotted it past the Angolan goalkeeper to give Morocco the lead.
Angola failed to offer a real response before the interval, heading into half-time trailing by a single goal.
Despite showing more urgency in the second half, Angola struggled to penetrate Morocco’s disciplined backline. Their hopes of a comeback were dashed in the 81st minute when Kinito accidentally diverted a Moroccan cross into his own net, handing the Atlas Lions a 2-0 cushion they comfortably held onto.
READ MORE
Isiolo MCAs dismiss claims of irregular budget approval
Kenya one Ogutu upbeat ahead of East Africa E-Sports Naivasha tournament
Kenya one Ogutu upbeat ahead of East Africa E-Sports Tournament in Naivasha
Frozen out: Why olympian Sabrina feels forsaken by Kenya
Amateurs hunt for 2026 Kenya Open slots
New Sh2.6b Kwale fish port lies idle as KPA hunts for operator
Heirs at war: Kihika Kimani's widows, children clash over Sh600 million legacy
Qatar bids to host 2036 Olympic Games
Gaza civil defence says Israeli attacks kill 26 near two aid centres
Why Kenya will roll out injectable HIV preventive drug next year
Kenya Strike Late in First Half to Down DR Congo
Earlier in the day, Allan Odhiambo's clinical finish shortly before half-time proved enough for Kenya to defeat DR Congo 1-0 in a hard-fought encounter. The Harambee Stars displayed solid organisation and determination to hold onto their lead despite second-half pressure from the Congolese.
Group A Standings and Fixtures
With the victories, both Morocco and Kenya top Group A with three points each, with Morocco ahead on goal difference. Angola, DR Congo, and Zambia are yet to register a point.
Morocco will face Kenya in a top-of-the-table clash on August 10, followed by matches against Zambia on August 14 and DR Congo on August 17.