Morocco and DR Congo, both two-time CHAN champions, face off in a decisive Group B clash at Nyayo Stadium with a quarter-final ticket at stake.
When Morocco and DR Congo step onto the pitch at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, August 17, it will not just be about three points, it will be a fight for survival and prestige at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
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Both nations are two-time CHAN winners, both tied on six points, and both carrying the weight of history. Yet their situations differ sharply: Morocco need only a draw to reach the quarter-finals, while DR Congo must win to keep their campaign alive.
The Atlas Lions, coached by Tarek Sektioui, approach the fixture with confidence. A draw secures their qualification, but Sektioui insists the team are focused solely on victory.
“This is a very crucial match for us and our ambition is to get into the quarter-finals. A win is all we are searching for,” he said, praising his players’ professionalism.
Defender Mohamed Moufid reinforced the message, stressing that courage and sacrifice will be essential. “It is not an easy match but one that we must play with heart. We want to go to the next round and we have to sacrifice to achieve that.”
For the Leopards, the equation is simple: win or go home. Head coach Otis Ngoma acknowledged the magnitude of the task.
“These are two former champions meeting and there is a lot at stake. We have been improving in each game and must be sharper offensively if we are to qualify,” he said.
Their cause is hampered by the suspension of left-back Papy Kokeleya. Youngster Jacques Kapanga Mwimba is expected to step in, while midfielder Age Basiala emphasized the need to avoid costly errors. “Against such an opponent, any small mistake you make, you get punished,” he warned.
Both Morocco and DR Congo boast proud CHAN legacies with two titles each. But Sunday’s clash will likely end one champion’s dream at the group stage.
With Kenya also facing Zambia, Group B remains delicately balanced, but the Leopards know only victory guarantees their survival.
At Nyayo Stadium, history, pride, and a quarter-final ticket are all on the line.
