CHAN: Kenya topple champions Morocco to take control of Group A

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Kenya’s dream debut at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship continued on Sunday with a dramatic 1-0 win over Morocco in Nairobi, achieved despite playing the entire second half with a man down.

Ryan Ogam delivered the match-winning strike three minutes before half-time, latching onto a loose ball in the box and smashing it low into the corner. The goal sent the Moi International Sports Centre crowd into raptures.

Kenya's defender #25 Sylvester Owino Ahono celebrates his team victory during the African Nations Championship (CHAN) group stage football match between Kenya and Morocco at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, on August 10, 2025. (Photo by AFP)

But the mood changed moments later. Chrispine Erambo, cautioned for a late challenge, saw his yellow upgraded to a red card following a VAR review.

This left Kenya facing 45 minutes of intense pressure from one of the continent’s strongest CHAN sides.

Kenya's defender #5 Alphonse Otieno Omija (C) clears the ball as Morocco's forward #11 El Kaabi Youness (R) attempts an overhead kick during the African Nations Championship (CHAN) group stage football match between Kenya and Morocco at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, on August 10, 2025. (Photo by AFP)

Morocco, on a 14-match unbeaten run in the competition, poured forward after the interval. Coach Tarik Sektioui shuffled his pack, bringing in attacking reinforcements to try to break through. Chances fell to Youssef Mehri and Louadni, but both missed the target, while Byrne Omondi in the Kenyan goal produced several outstanding stops.

McCarthy reorganised his team to sit deep, relying on disciplined defending and counterattacks. Sylvester Owino and Mike Kibwage dominated aerial battles, and the tireless full-backs shut down Moroccan wingers.

Late introductions of Daniel Sakari and David Sakwa helped run down the clock and relieve pressure.

Ryan Ogam of Kenya celebrates after scoring during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) football match between Kenya and Morocco. (Courtesy Photo/CAF)

The result leaves Kenya top of Group A with seven points from three games. A draw against Zambia in their final match could secure a quarter-final spot, while victory would guarantee first place.

For Morocco, the defeat is a setback that forces them into must-win territory in their next fixture against Angola.