DAR ES SALAAM – Morocco booked their spot in the quarterfinals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after defeating the Democratic Republic of Congo 3–1 in a decisive Group A fixture at Nyayo National Stadium on Monday.

The Atlas Lions sealed second place in the group, setting up a highly anticipated showdown with hosts Tanzania on Friday at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Kenya topped Group A with 10 points after edging Zambia 1–0 at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The Harambee Stars, who finished the group stage unbeaten, will now face Madagascar, runners-up in Group B, in the other quarterfinal match on the same day.

It was a high-stakes contest between Morocco and DR Congo, both knowing only victory would ensure progression. Morocco struck first in the 8th minute when Oussama Lamlaoui tapped in Youssef Belammari’s low cross. DR Congo responded just before the break as Jephté Kitambala bundled home an equaliser in the 43rd minute.

After halftime, Morocco took charge again. Mohamed Hrimat restored their lead from the penalty spot in the 66th minute following a VAR review of Magloire Ntambwe’s foul on Khalid Baba. DR Congo threw numbers forward in search of a comeback, but Lamlaoui struck again in the 80th minute, finishing Youssef Mehri’s cut-back to seal a brace and the win.

The defeat ended DR Congo’s campaign, while Zambia also exited the tournament after losing all four matches.

In Nairobi, Kenya’s Ryan Ogam emerged as the hero, scoring the lone goal that secured the Harambee Stars’ place at the summit of Group A and set the stage for their clash with Madagascar.