Morocco began their quest for a third African Nations Championship (CHAN) title with a solid 2-0 victory over Angola in the Group A opener at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
Imad Riahi’s spectacular long-range strike in the first half and a second-half own goal from Angola’s Kinito sealed a deserved win for the Atlas Lions in a contest they largely dominated.
The CHAN, which features only players plying their trade in their domestic leagues, saw Morocco once again demonstrate their pedigree in a tournament they have won twice—in 2018 and 2020.
With a revamped squad and high expectations, Morocco came into the match looking to extend their 13-match unbeaten run in the competition.
Head coach Tarik Sektioui's side wasted no time asserting their authority, dictating the tempo from the outset.
After a few early chances and corners, Morocco broke the deadlock in the 29th minute.
A precise through ball from Mohamed Hrimat found Riahi, who made no mistake from outside the box, unleashing a powerful right-footed effort that beat Angolan goalkeeper Neblú at the centre of the goal.
The Atlas Lions continued to press for a second with Riahi, Anas Bach, and Marouane Louadni all forcing fine saves from Neblú in a flurry of attacks before the break.
Angola, who had never won an opening match in four previous CHAN appearances, responded with moments of danger, particularly through Jó Paciência and Aguinaldo Matias, but Morocco's goalkeeper El Mehdi Al Harrar stood firm.
In the second half, the North Africans remained in control. Angola made several changes to inject life into their attack, but it was Morocco who doubled their advantage in the 81st minute.
Substitute Youness El Kaabi, making an instant impact, broke free down the left and saw his shot parried by Neblú into the path of Kinito, who inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net under pressure.
Despite some late attempts by Angola, including a long-range effort from Mafuta, Morocco's defence remained resolute, with captain Hrimat marshalling the backline effectively.
The result extends Morocco’s unbeaten record in CHAN group stages and sends an early statement of intent to the rest of the competition.
Angola, meanwhile, are now winless in five CHAN matches and face an uphill task to qualify from a competitive Group A.
Morocco will next face tournament co-hosts Kenya, while Angola must regroup ahead of their clash with Zambia.
