10-man Harambee Stars earn hard-fought victory against Morocco
By Kenneth Mwenda, August 10, 2025The Harambee Stars pulled off a gutsy 1-0 victory over tournament heavyweights Morocco at a packed Kasarani Stadium, sealing top spot in Group A of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in front of over 40,000 roaring fans.
Ryan Ogam’s 42nd-minute strike proved decisive, but the win came under intense pressure after midfielder Chrispine Erambo was shown a straight red card just before half-time for a dangerous tackle, the second time in as many games Kenya has had a player sent off.
Coach Benni McCarthy, who had rung the changes by dropping several regular starters, including captain Omar Aboud and midfield creator Austin Odhiambo, saw his tactical shake-up pay early dividends.
Kenya pressed high from the opening whistle, even forcing an early corner in the fifth minute, and worked tirelessly to deny Morocco space.
Morocco enjoyed more possession but found Bryne Omondi in inspired form, notably denying El Mahraoui in the 35th minute. Kenya’s breakthrough came against the run of play: Boniface Omondi surged forward, fed the ball to Muchiri, whose shot was blocked. Ogam pounced on the rebound, driving the ball into the bottom right corner to ignite Kasarani.
Ten-man Kenya hold firm
Barely few minutes later, VAR intervened to upgrade Erambo’s late challenge to a straight red, forcing Kenya to defend with ten men for the entire second half.
McCarthy reacted with disciplined reshuffles, introducing defensive reinforcements and switching to a compact low block. The 55th minute brought further drama when Muchiri appeared to win a penalty, only for VAR to downgrade it to a free kick, which Ogam smashed into the wall.
Morocco pushed hard, introducing fresh attackers, but Kenya held their shape, with Kibwage and Sylvester Owino commanding the backline. Substitutions in the 64th and 77th minutes — including the introduction of Aboud and Sakari — further bolstered the defence.
Injury time saw seven added minutes, but the hosts absorbed every Moroccan attack, clearing balls desperately and drawing deafening cheers with each interception.
The final whistle confirmed a famous win for Kenya, who move to seven points, being the Group A leaders.