Historic CHAN Upset: 10-Man Kenya Shock Morocco 1-0 to Seize Group A Lead with 7 Points

Kenya’s Harambee Stars delivered one of the biggest shocks in CHAN history, defeating two-time champions Morocco 1-0 at a packed Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, to go top of Group A with seven points. Even more remarkably, they achieved it after playing the entire second half with 10 men following Chrispine Erambo’s VAR-upgraded red card in first-half stoppage time.

Ryan Wesley Ogam struck the decisive blow in the 41st minute, rifling a left-footed shot into the bottom corner after Ben Stanley Omondi’s effort was blocked. The goal not only sealed Kenya’s first-ever win over Morocco but also ended the Atlas Lions’ 14-match unbeaten run in the tournament, stretching back over multiple editions.

From that moment, it was a masterclass in defensive resilience. McCarthy’s men, marshalled by centre-backs Mike Kibwage and Sylvester Owino, shut down Morocco’s aerial threat, while full-backs Siraj Mohammed and Lewis Bandi stifled dangerous wing play. Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, fresh from heroics against Angola, made crucial saves to deny Marouane Louadni and Mohamed Hrimat, finishing with a 100% save rate.

Morocco, who had 41.3% possession in their opener but dominated much more here, forced numerous corners and free-kicks yet failed to find a breakthrough. The visitors, famed for dispatching tournament hosts, saw their final pass repeatedly break down under Kenya’s relentless pressure.

With the victory, Kenya become only the third CHAN debutant to beat a former champion, following DR Congo (2009) and Libya (2014). It also guarantees them a quarter-final spot with one match to spare — a feat unmatched by many first-timers.

Kenya’s group stage record now stands at:

• P3 | W2 | D1 | L0

• Goals scored: 3 | Goals conceded: 1 | Points: 7

A draw in their final game against Zambia would secure top spot in Group A, while Morocco’s hopes now rest on their remaining fixtures against Angola.

For McCarthy, who famously scored against Morocco in AFCON 1998, it was a tactical triumph built on discipline, heart, and ruthless finishing — a night that will be remembered in Kenyan football history.