Kenya’s Harambee Stars face one of their toughest tests yet when they take on Morocco in a CHAN 2024 group-stage clash at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The African Nations Championship, reserved for players competing in their domestic leagues, offers a rare stage to showcase homegrown talent and tactical depth.
Since taking over, head coach Benni McCarthy has pushed for a high-tempo, pressing style. His side showed flashes of promise against Angola, with sharp transitions in attack, but also left defensive gaps that a team of Morocco’s calibre will be quick to punish.
Morocco — CHAN champions in 2018 and 2020 — arrive in Nairobi with a possession-heavy, disciplined approach built around quick passing triangles and overlapping fullbacks. The Botola Pro, their domestic league, has a proven track record of producing continental champions, making them one of the competition’s most technically gifted outfits.
Kenya’s hopes may hinge on their midfield balance. Playmaker Alpha Chris Onyango is expected to control the tempo alongside Gor Mahia’s Austin Odhimabo, who leads the Stars’ scoring charts with two goals. Their link-up will be key in breaking Morocco’s press and supplying the forwards.
The North Africans come into the match on a 14-match unbeaten run in CHAN, having opened their campaign with a 2-0 win over Angola at Nyayo National Stadium. Danger man Imad Riami of Renaissance de Berkane — known for his intelligent movement and lethal finishing — will be looking to trouble Kenya’s backline.
Morocco, making their fifth CHAN appearance since debuting in 2014, share the record for most titles (two) with DR Congo. A third crown would see them stand alone as the most successful side in the tournament’s history. Head coach Tarik Sektioui’s men will aim to impose their game from the first whistle.
For McCarthy’s Harambee Stars, this match presents a great test with it’s a chance to prove they can stand toe-to-toe with Africa’s elite. Victory would put them within touching distance of the knockout stages; defeat would leave their campaign hanging in the balance depending on results from other matches in a tightly contested group.
