Kenya’s U20 national team delivered a spirited performance but narrowly fell 3-2 to Morocco in their opening match of the 2025 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday.
The young Harambee Stars began brightly, with forward Okoth opening the scoring in the 16th minute after capitalizing on a Moroccan defensive lapse. Kenya looked composed in the early exchanges, pressing high and unsettling the Atlas Lions.
However, just as they seemed poised to carry the lead into halftime, Morocco equalized in added time (45+3’) through Yassir Zabiri, who punished a lapse in focus with a superb solo goal.
Zabiri returned after the break to give Morocco the lead in the 55th minute, but Kenya refused to fold. A resilient Kenyan side fought back, with Kitsao restoring parity in the 71st minute following a well-worked attacking move.
The comeback was short-lived, as Moroccan substitute Laalaoui struck the winner in the 78th minute, dashing Kenya’s hopes of a dream start.
Despite the loss, Kenya earned plaudits for their fighting spirit and tactical organization. The team created several chances and stayed competitive throughout, pushing Morocco into a nervy finish.
Coach John Kamau praised his players’ resolve, calling it “a performance full of heart” and promising improvements ahead of their next clash against Nigeria.
With Group B tightly contested, Kenya will need a result in their next outing to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive.
