Excitement is reaching fever pitch as Morocco, two-time winners of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), became the first team to arrive for the highly anticipated 2024 edition of the tournament.
The Atlas Lions touched down at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 4:00 a.m. on Monday, marking a significant milestone as East Africa gears up to co-host the event from August 2 to 30 alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
The early arrival of the North African giants has sent a strong message to their Group A rivals, which includes hosts Kenya, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia.
Morocco’s intent is crystal clear: they’re in Nairobi for business, aiming to add a third CHAN title to their trophy cabinet following triumphs in 2018 and 2021.
Upon arrival, the Moroccan delegation received a warm welcome, complete with cultural performances and an official greeting from the local organizing committee.
Speaking shortly after landing, defender Marouane Louadni of AS FAR expressed optimism and excitement.
“We are excited to be here and ready for CHAN. I already love Nairobi the weather is great, and we are looking forward to a successful tournament,” said Louadni.
Morocco’s preparation has been nothing short of thorough. In their final pre-tournament camp, the Atlas Lions played two friendly matches against Burkina Faso and delivered a resounding 6–0 victory over Chad a statement of their tactical sharpness and match fitness.
Their CHAN 2024 campaign begins against Angola on Sunday, August 3, at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium.
But the marquee fixture in Group A will be their clash against the Harambee Stars of Kenya, scheduled for the same day at 3:00 p.m. at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
As the host nation gears up for its fifth CHAN appearance, local excitement continues to grow.
The CAF Local Organising Committee (LOC) has now activated final logistics and ticketing operations, with thousands of fans expected to fill Nairobi’s stadiums.
For Kenya, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Head coach Engin Firat’s squad has been undergoing intense preparations, hoping that home advantage and national pride will fuel a historic run in the tournament.
With just days to go, Nairobi is abuzz with colour, flags, and song all signs pointing to a thrilling month of football that will not only crown a continental champion but also spotlight East Africa’s growing place on the African football map.
Let the games begin.
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