Kenya took a decisive step towards the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship in Nairobi on Sunday with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over two-time champions Morocco.
Ryan Ogam scored the only goal of the game in the 42nd minute at the Moi International Sports Centre. His strike settled an intense contest and handed Morocco their first defeat in 15 CHAN matches.
The hosts’ resilience was tested when Chrispine Erambo was sent off in first-half stoppage time after a video review, forcing them to play the entire second half with 10 men.
Coach Benni McCarthy’s side responded with discipline and composure. The back line, marshalled by captain James Wanyama, repelled wave after wave of Moroccan attacks as the home crowd roared them on. Goalkeeper Peter Odhiambo produced two crucial saves late on to preserve the lead.
The result maintains Kenya’s unbeaten record in Group A following a 1–0 win over DR Congo and a 1–1 draw with Angola.
With seven points from three matches, they now require only one point from their final group fixture to secure a place in the last eight on their tournament debut.
Morocco, who began the competition with a 2–0 victory over Angola, struggled to find rhythm against Kenya’s aggressive pressing and compact defending.
The defeat leaves them needing positive results in their remaining fixtures to keep alive their hopes of progressing.
McCarthy praised his players’ determination and the atmosphere created by the fans. “We showed heart, courage and unity. The supporters lifted us when we were a man down. This win is for them,” he said.
The victory sparked celebrations across Nairobi and reinforced the belief that Kenya can make a deep run in the competition.
