The African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Nairobi has exploded into life again, with Morocco’s Atlas Lions and DR Congo’s Leopards reigniting their title quests in Group A—and crushing the dreams of Zambia and Angola in the process.
Morocco’s Masterclass: Turning the Tide
Against a stubborn Zambian backline, Morocco didn’t just play—they dissected. Mohamed Hrimat broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time, rifling home from a perfectly delivered corner. Zambia thought they’d equalized soon after the break, but VAR ruled otherwise, and Oussama Lamlaoui pounced minutes later to double Morocco’s advantage.
Deep into injury time, Sabir Bougrine latched onto a rebound to seal a 3-1 triumph, catapulting the two-time champions into second place behind hosts Kenya—and slamming the exit door on Zambia.
Leopards’ Lethal Precision
DR Congo’s response to pressure was pure composure. The breakthrough came in the 58th minute when Âgée Basiala’s inch-perfect free-kick found Jephté Kitambala for a textbook header. Just 12 minutes later, Basiala turned provider again from a corner, with Jonathan Mokonzi sliding the ball home to make it 2-0.
Angola’s late push was met with iron discipline, leaving DR Congo level on points with Morocco and very much alive in the race.
Final Day Fireworks Await
All eyes now turn to Sunday’s decisive clash between Morocco and DR Congo—a straight fight for a quarter-final ticket. Kenya’s meeting with Zambia could yet shape the group’s destiny, but for now, both the Atlas Lions and Leopards are hungry, confident, and ready to hunt.
