Kenya sealed top spot in CHAN 2024 Group A after edging Zambia 1-0 at Kasarani, while Morocco produced a ruthless second-half performance to beat DR Congo 3-1 at Nyayo and claim the second ticket to the quarter-finals.

The Harambee Stars, already assured of progression before kickoff, were made to work hard against a stubborn Zambia side. The breakthrough finally came in the 75th minute, when substitute Boniface Muchiri slipped a pass through to Ryan Ogam, who controlled brilliantly inside the box before smashing past the keeper to send the Kasarani crowd into raptures.

It was a reward for Kenya’s dominance in possession and territory, though Zambia, who exited the tournament winless. Across the city at Nyayo, Morocco and DR Congo delivered a high-stakes battle. After a cagey first half that ended 1-1, Morocco seized control after the break. They added the second from the penalty spot, Hrimat calmly converting to make it 2-1 in the 70th minute. As DR Congo pushed forward desperately, Lamlioui struck again, finishing off another slick move to seal a 3-1 victory and Morocco’s place in the last eight.

Final Group A standings

Kenya – 10 pts

Morocco – 9 pts

DR Congo – 6 pts

Angola – 4 pts

Zambia – 0 pts

Kenya top the group with 10 points, setting up a favorable quarter-final clash that spares them a potential East African derby against Tanzania. Morocco, meanwhile, march on after finishing runners-up with nine points. Kenya will face Madagascar in the quarter-finals, while second-placed Morocco will play against Tanzania.

For DR Congo, the late collapse proved costly, as they bow out despite entering the final matchday level on points with Morocco. Zambia’s campaign ends in disappointment, with four defeats from four.

With the group stage now complete, Kenya and Morocco head into the knockout rounds full of belief, one chasing history in their debut CHAN appearance, the other rekindling memories of past continental success.