Salim Mvurya has honoured Morocco’s Atlas Lions following their dominant 2-0 victory over Angola in the 2024 CHAN opener at Nyayo Stadium. The Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports praised the team’s tactical brilliance and spirited display, saying it was a thrilling match witnessed alongside Raila Odinga and other dignitaries.

“Together with Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga and other distinguished guests, we witnessed a thrilling display of tactical prowess in the match between Morocco and Angola at Nyayo Stadium,” Mvurya posted on his X account on Monday, August 4, 2025. “Congratulations to the Atlas Lions of Morocco for their spirited 2-0 victory and strong start to the tournament!”

Morocco’s win marked a confident start for the two-time champions, who are now eyeing a third continental title in the tournament reserved for home-based players.

The Atlas Lions were in control for most of the match, with head coach Tarik Sektioui’s side dictating the tempo from the first whistle. Midfielder Imad Riahi gave Morocco the lead in the 29th minute with a stunning long-range strike that left Angola’s goalkeeper Neblú rooted to the spot.

Morocco continued to dominate possession and created several scoring opportunities, with Riahi, Anas Bach, and Marouane Louadni all testing Angola’s defence before the break. Angola, though occasionally threatening through Jó Paciência and Aguinaldo Matias, struggled to gain any foothold against Morocco’s disciplined setup.

Morocco cruise, Angola stumble

In the second half, Morocco’s dominance persisted. Substitute Youness El Kaabi made an immediate impact in the 81st minute, forcing Neblú into a save, only for defender Kinito to turn the ball into his own net while under pressure.

The result extends Morocco’s unbeaten run in CHAN group-stage matches to 14 and places them firmly on top of Group A. Angola, on the other hand, now face an uphill battle in a tough pool that includes co-hosts Kenya and Zambia.

Morocco’s next test comes against Kenya, a fixture that promises fireworks, while Angola will be desperate to bounce back when they face Zambia.