Here is all you need to know about Morocco, DR Congo, Angola and Zambia who will face Kenya in Group A at CHAN 2024.
Kenya’s journey in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) promises to be a challenging one, as they find themselves in a so-called “group of death” alongside Morocco, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia after the draw held on Wednesday at Kenyatta International Conference Center (KICC).
These teams are not only formidable but have storied histories in previous CHAN tournaments. Pulse Sports takes a detailed look at Kenya’s opponents and their past performances in the competition.
Morocco
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Morocco enters CHAN 2024 as a powerhouse, boasting a dominant history in the tournament.
Harambee Stars midfielder Kenneth Muguna has explained how Kenyan fans can help the national team overcome their tough Group A opponents during the 2024 CHAN tournament.
They are two-time champions, having won back-to-back titles in 2018 and 2021. Their technical depth and ability to control games make them one of the strongest teams in Africa.
Morocco’s success has been driven by a solid domestic league, which consistently produces top-tier talent for their CHAN squad. In 2023, however, they opted out of participation due to political tensions. The Atlas Lions are eager to reaffirm their dominance this year.
Appearances: 4 (2014, 2016, 2018, 2020)
Titles: 2 (2018, 2020)
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As the draw was conducted at KICC’s Tsavo Ballroom on Wednesday night, attending Kenyan football stakeholders were understandably disgruntled any time Kenya were pitted against another opponent in group A of CHAN 2024. However, there are five reasons why the ‘group of death’ is a blessing in disguise for Harambee Stars.
DR Congo
DR Congo is synonymous with CHAN success, being the joint-most decorated team in the tournament’s history.
They claimed the inaugural title in 2009 and added a second in 2016. Known for their physicality and attacking flair, DR Congo thrives on their ability to unsettle opponents with relentless pressure. Despite a dip in form in recent years, they remain a perennial favorite.
Appearances: 5 (2009, 2011, 2014, 2016, 2020)
Titles: 2 (2009, 2016)
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Kenneth Muguna has fired a warning to CHAN rivals insisting that Harambee Stars don’t fear opposition.
Angola
Angola has shown flashes of brilliance in CHAN tournaments but remain inconsistent. Their best performance came in 2011 when they reached the final but fell short against Tunisia.
Angola’s style of play combines disciplined defending with quick counterattacks. Although they have struggled to progress past the group stage in recent editions, they’re a team capable of causing upsets.
Appearances: 5 (2011, 2016, 2018, 2020, 2023)
Best Finish: Runners-up (2011)
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The former Kenyan international has explained why Harambee Stars and Kenyans should be happy with the tough CHAN 2024 group that has Morocco, DRC, Zambia and Angola.
Zambia
Zambia’s Chipolopolo are known for their rich footballing tradition and passionate fanbase. While their CHAN record isn’t as illustrious as some, they have consistently reached the knockout stages.
Zambia’s physical strength and high-energy play make them a challenging opponent for any team. Their best finish came in 2009 when they secured third place. They are looking to build on their recent resurgence in African football.
Appearances: 5 (2009, 2016, 2018, 2020, 2023)
Best Finish: Third place (2009)
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The postponement of CHAN 2024 gives East Africa a crucial chance to improve infrastructure and readiness ahead of AFCON 2027.
Kenya faces an uphill battle in this highly competitive group. Each of their opponents has a track record of success and experience in CHAN tournaments.
To advance, Kenya will need to demonstrate tactical discipline, resilience, and an ability to capitalise on scoring opportunities with the added advantage of playing on home soil at the Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums.
Harambee Stars must play at their absolute best to stand a chance in the 2024 CHAN group stages slated for August after postponement.
