Morocco’s local players’ national team coach, Tarik Sektioui, has made it clear that securing victory against Kenya is essential for progressing beyond the group stage of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Speaking in Nairobi ahead of Sunday’s Group A match at Kasarani Stadium, Sektioui emphasized the importance of the encounter.
“Our main goal is to advance past the first round, and that requires a win over Kenya,” Sektioui stated during the pre-match press conference.
He added that facing the hosts will demand the same level of determination and focus as previous fixtures, with the team aiming to claim all three points.
Sektioui acknowledged Kenya’s strong performances so far, describing the match as a tough challenge. “Kenya has delivered solid games, so this will be a difficult contest.
We must give our all for the full 90 minutes to secure a positive result,” he said. He also praised his squad’s depth and quality, noting that every player called up brings valuable contributions to the team’s dynamics.
Addressing the week-long break Morocco enjoyed following their opening game against Angola, the coach described it as a “double-edged sword” that requires careful management to ensure the players remain sharp and ready for Sunday’s test.
Morocco midfielder Oussama Lamlioui echoed his coach’s sentiments, acknowledging the challenge posed by Kenya’s home advantage.
“The match will be tough since we are playing against the host nation motivated by their home crowd, but we have prepared well to start this game strongly,” Lamlioui explained.
He added that preparations are progressing smoothly and expressed confidence in his team’s readiness to make a difference on the pitch. “We will give everything to earn the three points,” Lamlioui affirmed.
On the Kenyan side, head coach Benni McCarthy acknowledged Morocco as a formidable and well-organized opponent. “Morocco is a strong team, not only one of the best in our group but also in the entire tournament. The match will be difficult,” McCarthy said.
He highlighted the contrasting preparation schedules between the two teams, pointing out that Morocco has had a full week to prepare, while Kenya played their last match just two days ago. “I hope our motivation and physical condition will be sufficient to compete effectively against Morocco,” McCarthy noted.
Reflecting on Kenya’s first two games, McCarthy praised the team’s resilience and strong character, hoping these qualities will be evident against the North African side.
“Morocco is unpredictable, which means we must maintain high quality and organization in every aspect of the game,” he concluded.
As both teams gear up for this decisive Group A encounter, anticipation builds for a fiercely contested match that could determine who advances further in CHAN 2024.
