AFCON 2025
Morocco edged out DR Congo 3–1 at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium in their CHAN Group A match laden with both drama and decisive moments.
The Atlas Lions grabbed an early lead as Oussama Lamlaoui finished off closely from a Youssef Belammari cross in just the eighth minute. DR Congo responded with a well-worked equalizer—Jephté Kitambala bundled the ball over the line in the 43rd minute to send both teams into halftime level at 1–1.
The second half belonged to Morocco. In the 66th minute, a foul by DR Congo’s Magloire Ntambwe on Khalid Baba inside the box was confirmed by VAR, and Mohamed Hrimat coolly slotted home the penalty to restore the lead.
Morocco sealed the result in the 80th minute when Lamlaoui scored again, finishing a composed move with a precise strike. A potential fourth goal was ruled offside by VAR, but the 3–1 outcome stood, securing Morocco’s quarter-final qualification.
Meanwhile, Kenya maintained its strong form in Group A by defeating Zambia 1–0 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The sole and decisive goal came in the 75th minute as Ryan Ogam controlled a pass from Boniface Muchiri and finished clinically past the goalkeeper. This victory confirmed Kenya as group winners and boosted their credentials heading into the knockout rounds.
DR Congo, despite finishing on six points, will not progress. Kenya tops the group with ten points, followed by Morocco with nine, while Angola trails on four. Zambia ended the group stage without a point.
