CHAN 2024: Morocco vs. DR Congo, a “final” showdown for a quarterfinal spot
The match between Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo, scheduled for this Sunday, August 17, at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi (3:00 PM local time, 1:00 PM GMT+1), is set to be one of the most decisive clashes in this group stage of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
In a pre-match press conference, the head coach of the Moroccan local team, Tarik Sektioui, described the encounter as a “final” for both teams. “This match is crucial, for us as well as for the DRC,” he asserted, emphasizing his players’ determination and motivation to secure a victory.
Sektioui clarified that the Moroccan game plan will take into account the speed and offensive dynamics of the Congolese players. “We will organize our game based on the strengths of our opponent,” he explained, stressing that tactical analysis of the Congolese game is the key to success.
He also highlighted the importance of mental and physical preparation, which are crucial factors in such high-stakes confrontations, especially against a team like the DRC, which has been crowned CHAN champion twice.
Meanwhile, Moroccan defender Mohamed Moufid emphasized the concentration and positive mindset prevailing in the squad. According to him, the local Lions of the Atlas are ready to rise to the challenge against a Congolese team described as “aggressive and compact,” and to approach each match as a final to be won.
This duel is set to be a strategic and physical battle, the outcome of which could very well determine the fate of one of the contenders for the quarter-finals.
