Following Kenya’s thrilling 1-0 victory over DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium, focus now turns to the Nyayo National Stadium, where Morocco and Angola are clashing in another highly anticipated Group A fixture at the CHAN 2024 tournament.

The Atlas Lions, seeking a record third CHAN title, named a strong starting XI led by experienced midfielder Mohamed Rabie Hrimat. Head coach Tarik Sektioui has emphasized the importance of a winning start as Morocco kicks off their title defense campaign.

The confirmed Morocco starting lineup includes: Y. El Alami (GK), A. Bachi, M. Louadni, K. Ait Ouarkha, B. Arrassi, Y. Belammari, I. Riahi, A. Mouloua, M. Moufid, M. Rhimat, and A. El Mahraoui. Among the notable substitutes are R. Ghanimi (GK), A. Souane, S. Bougrine, and M. Mchakhchekh, players who could make an impact off the bench.

This will be Morocco’s fifth appearance at the tournament, and they enter the competition unbeaten in their last 13 CHAN matches. Having previously lifted the title in 2018 and 2020, Morocco is the only nation to have successfully defended the CHAN crown. The team’s dominance is built on tactical discipline and technical quality, something coach Sektioui believes will again be key.

Angola eyes historic upset

Angola, meanwhile, is no pushover. Under coach Pedro Gonçalves, the Palancas Negras have shown steady growth. Winners of the 2024 COSAFA Cup and semifinalists at AFCON, Angola’s domestic-based squad is eager to make a mark. Gonçalves has played down Morocco’s pedigree, stating: “They are strong, but we’re hungry. This is our moment to rise.”

However, Angola’s preparations have been disrupted by the departure of five players to foreign clubs just before the tournament. Despite that, Gonçalves remains optimistic, praising the players’ development and mental resilience.

This fixture marks the first-ever CHAN meeting between Morocco and Angola. While Morocco boasts a perfect record in tournament openers, Angola have struggled—going winless in four previous first games.

The match at Nyayo promises an intense tactical battle, with Morocco aiming to assert early dominance in the group and Angola seeking to disrupt the North African giants’ rhythm.

As both teams unveil their squads and take to the pitch, fans across the continent will be watching closely, eager to see who emerges stronger in this clash of CHAN titans.