Kenya sealed their group stage campaign on a high note in Nairobi, defeating Zambia 1-0 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, as hosts of the African Nations Championship preserved their unbeaten record.
The Harambee Stars’ resilience earned them 10 points, enough to top the group and finish one point clear of Morocco, who secured second place with nine.
Despite a strong showing, DR Congo’s six points were not enough to advance in such a fiercely contested pool.
Angola followed with four points, while Zambia ended bottom without a single win.
Focus Shifts to Quarter-Finals
With the group phase behind them, Kenya and Morocco now turn their attention to the knockout rounds, where the margin for error is even slimmer.
For Morocco, the sharp finishing of Lamlaoui and the composure of Hrimat remain vital weapons. Kenya, meanwhile, carry the momentum of group leaders, backed by a resolute defence that has made them genuine contenders.
For DR Congo, the dream of a third CHAN title ends prematurely. The Leopards bow out, reminded once again of how tournament football can be decided by the finest of margins.
Leopards’ Preparations Cut Short
Yet DR Congo had started their campaign with clear intent, naming a 36-man preliminary squad and setting sights on a historic third continental crown.
As part of their final build-up, the Leopards had camped in Algeria, where they were also lined up to face the hosts in a crucial pre-tournament friendly.