

Two-time African Nations Championship (CHAN) winners Morocco became the first team to arrive in Nairobi on Sunday morning ahead of this year’s CHAN tournament, which kicks off this weekend.
Led by head coach Tarik Sektioui, the Atlas Lions touched down in the capital after wrapping up their preparations with two friendly matches against Burkina Faso.
The North Africans edged out the Stallions 2-1 in their first encounter at the municipal stadium of Kenitra on July 19, before going down 3-1 in the reverse fixture six days later.
Morocco will open their CHAN campaign on Sunday, August 3, with a clash against Angola at Nyayo Stadium.
They will then shift base to the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, where they are scheduled to face hosts Kenya on August 10, before taking on Zambia at the same venue on August 14.
Their final group stage match will be against DR Congo on Sunday, August 17, back at Nyayo Stadium.
The Atlas Lions, who lifted the CHAN title in 2018 and 2020,
are keen to make a strong statement in Nairobi as they chase a record third crown.
For the Harambee Stars, this tournament is not just
another fixture on the calendar; it is an opportunity to showcase the
resilience and determination of a nation long yearning for footballing success.
Their
campaign begins against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on August 3, a
team with a rich history and a legacy of success, having clinched the
championship twice.
This encounter
will set the tone for Kenya’s aspirations, as the players will need to harness
their collective strength and tactical acumen to navigate the complexities of
the game.
The 2024 Africa Nations Championship is not merely a tournament; it is an opportunity to carve a legacy, to inspire future generations of Kenyan footballers, and to instill a sense of pride within the nation.