Morocco secured a 2-0 win over Angola on Sunday, August 3, in Nairobi to open their CHAN 2024 campaign on a strong note, with captain Mohamed Rabie Hrimat playing a pivotal role in the triumph.
The Atlas Lions’ skipper was named Man of the Match by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following an outstanding performance in the Group A opener.
Hrimat stood out in midfield and was instrumental in Morocco’s first goal, providing a precisely weighted assist in the 30th minute to set up Imar Raghyi, who made no mistake in front of goal.
That opener gave Morocco the upper hand early in the contest and set the tone for what became a well-controlled display from coach Tarik Sektioui’s side.
Maintaining their composure and tactical organisation, the North Africans extended their lead in the second half to seal all three points and move level at the top of the group standings with hosts Kenya.
Hrimat’s leadership and vision in midfield were critical throughout the match, helping to dictate the tempo and break up Angola’s attacking movements. His contribution was central to a Moroccan team that looked confident and well-prepared from the outset.
With the victory, Morocco shares the top spot in Group A with Kenya, both sides having collected three points after the opening round of fixtures.
The two group leaders are now set to face off in a highly anticipated showdown on Sunday, August 10, at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi.
That upcoming match is already shaping up to be one of the group stage’s most decisive encounters, with the winner likely to take a commanding step toward the knockout rounds.
Morocco’s win against Angola also sends a strong message to their rivals, as the defending champions aim to assert their dominance once more in the continental tournament reserved for players active in domestic leagues.
As for Hrimat, his Man of the Match recognition is not only a personal accolade but a reflection of his importance to this Moroccan squad.
With his precise passing, positional awareness, and calm under pressure, the captain demonstrated why he is such a vital figure in Sektioui’s setup.
The next fixture against Kenya promises to be a stern test, particularly with the home crowd expected to create a charged atmosphere.
However, if Morocco can replicate the discipline and fluidity shown in their opener—and if Hrimat continues to marshal the midfield with the same authority—they will be well-positioned to extend their unbeaten start in CHAN 2024.
