In an unexpected upset, Morocco’s local players national team (2025 generation) suffered a 1-0 defeat to co-host Kenya in a match they largely dominated but failed to convert into goals. This stunning loss throws Group A wide open, leaving one of the tournament favorites, Morocco, on a much tougher path. The Atlas Lions now have no room for error if they hope to advance to the quarterfinals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Meanwhile, Angola secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Zambia, a result that dramatically changes the group standings. This win, coupled with Morocco’s loss, has created a highly competitive situation where every remaining match carries immense weight.
Things are getting complicated
With Morocco’s loss to Kenya, the race for the two qualifying spots has become incredibly complex. The current standings are as follows:
- Kenya : 7 points (3 games)
- Angola : 4 points (3 games)
- Morocco: 3 points (2 games)
- DR Congo : 3 points (2 games)
- Zambie : 0 point (2 matchs games)
Kenya now stands in a commanding position to advance. The battle for the other spot, however, remains wide open, transforming the final group-stage matches into a frantic and unpredictable affair. With Morocco, DR Congo, and Angola all vying for the remaining qualifying place, even Zambia, despite having zero points, is not out of the race. The Chipolopolo Boys still hold out hope of securing six points from their final two games against Morocco and Kenya, believing this could be enough to secure a dramatic late qualification.
“Zambia, now bottom of Group with zero points, must beat third-placed Morocco on Thursday and leaders Kenya on Sunday to have any chance of progressing.”
Reads the Zambian website Bola News
The tie-breaker rules, which include head-to-head results, goal difference, and goals scored, might likely play a major role in determining who advances to the quarterfinals.