CHAN 2024: The six key battles expected in Kenya vs Morocco clash
Reading Time: 4min | Sun. 10.08.25. | 09:38
The midfield battle will be key in determining the match winner today.
There will be six battles in various areas of the pitch that will be key in determining the winner of the Kenya vs Tunisia clash.
The two countries are set to face off in a Group A CHAN match today, Sunday 10 August, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Kenya head into the match as group leaders with four points from two matches; the latest being a 1-1 draw against Angola on Thursday 7 August.
Morocco are second in the group with three points, courtesy of a 2-0 win over Angola in their first match, which was then followed by a week-long rest.
With the two nations eyeing a quarter-final slot, the match is anticipated to be highly competitive and will be decided by key individual battles which Mozzart Sport explores.
Sylvester Owino vs Ayoub Mouloua
One of Kenya's strengths so far in the tournament has been their ability to put in solid defensive performances.
At the heart of the Kenyan defence is 24-year-old Gor Mahia man Owino alongside his club teammate Alphonce Omija.
Owino's ability to remain calm under pressure and his prowess in the air have been key for Kenya, especially against teams that put in crosses. Owino was one of the heroes against Angola when he made a goal-line clearance in the second half.
With Kenya largely expected to be on the back foot, Owino will once again be called upon to be at his best and prevent FUS Rabat youngster Ayoub Mouloua, who is expected to lead the Moroccan attack.
Mouloua is swift, sharp and has a remarkable eye for goal, and therefore his battle with Owino will be one to watch.
Daniel Sakari vs Imad Riahi
Once again, Kenya's Sakari will be facing one of the continent’s best wingers at CHAN in the name of Riahi.
Riahi, 25, has proven throughout the season to be a game-changing player for his club RS Berkane, whom he helped clinch the CAF Confederation Cup.
He was also one of the best performers for Morocco in their opening match and scored the opener.
However, to affect today's match, he will have to overcome Sakari, who has proven his ability in dealing with the best of wingers, including Egyptian Trezeguet.
Manzur Okwaro vs Mohamed Hrimat
One of the tournament's surprises has been the rise and rise of Kenyan youngster Manzur Okwaro, a defender who has excelled in midfield for coach Benni McCarthy.
Okwaro’s inclusion in the starting eleven of Kenya's opener against DR Congo raised eyebrows, but his performance since then has calmed Kenyan supporters, who now rank him as one of the team's key players.
After proving his worth against DRC and Angola, Okwaro will face even tougher opposition in Hrimat.
The experienced midfielder was a key pillar in the first game, dictating the tempo of the match and initiating attacks, which led to a man-of-the-match crown at the time.
The midfield battle will be key in determining the match winner today.
Austin Odhiambo vs Anas Bach
Gor Mahia star Odhiambo has established himself as arguably the most important player in the Kenyan squad.
Odhiambo has been the spark in Kenya's attack, with his skills troubling opponents, and is so far the tournament's joint top scorer with two goals, having scored all of Kenya's goals in the tournament.
Morocco must therefore keep an eye on Odhiambo, fondly referred to as "Rolls Royce" by Kenyan supporters, and the man tasked with that job will be FUS Rabat midfielder Anas Bach.
Ryan Ogam vs Marouane Louadni
At the apex of Kenya's attack will most likely be Tusker striker Ogam. Despite his struggle for form since returning from injury, he is still expected to lead the line.
The 20-year-old will face off with the experienced Marouane, who is 10 years older than him.
If Kenya are to pull a surprise on Morocco, Ogam must be able to overcome Louadni in one of the battles that will be key in the match.
Benni McCarthy vs Tarik Sektioui
As in the game of football, the biggest battle will take place in the dugout, pitting two opposing tacticians, Harambee Stars’ McCarthy against Sektioui.
While the latter has better players on paper, McCarthy has proven to be tactically adaptable and resilient, proving a hard nut to crack for his opponents.
The South African will have an opportunity to test himself against one of Africa’s best in Sektioui for Morocco, with the winner of the battle also expected to be on the winning side.
