Kenya vs Zambia match. Photo/Courtesy
By Daisy Okiring
Kenya’s Harambee Stars delivered a crucial 1-0 victory over Zambia in their African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A clash at Kasarani Stadium, sealing their place in the knockout stages.
The decisive goal came in the second half when Ryan Ogam finished smartly after a well-timed assist, sending the 27,000 fans in attendance into wild celebrations. The result ensured that Kenya finished top of their group, remaining unbeaten as they continue their campaign on home soil.
Zambia, on the other hand, left the tournament empty-handed, failing to register a single point in their four group matches.
How the Match Unfolded
The first half was a tense affair, with both sides struggling to create clear chances. Kenya pressed high, forcing errors from the Zambian backline, but lacked precision in the final third. Zambia, meanwhile, attempted to hit on the counterattack but were contained by Kenya’s disciplined defense.
The breakthrough came in the 75th minute. Substitute Boniface Muchiri found space on the right flank and delivered a clever ball into the penalty area. Ogam controlled calmly before slotting past Zambian goalkeeper Charles Kalumba, sparking jubilant celebrations across Kasarani.
From there, the Harambee Stars maintained their composure. Zambia pushed hard for an equalizer in the closing stages, but Kenya’s defense, led with discipline and resilience, held firm. The goalkeeper made a crucial save late in the game to preserve the lead and secure all three points.
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The win rewarded Kenya’s persistent pressure throughout the match and highlighted their ability to capitalize when it mattered most.
Group Standings and What Lies Ahead
The result confirmed Kenya’s progression to the quarter-finals, where they will face Madagascar at Kasarani on Friday, August 22. With home advantage and strong momentum, the Harambee Stars are optimistic about advancing deeper into the tournament.
Elsewhere in Group A, Morocco beat DR Congo 3-1 in the simultaneous fixture, meaning both Kenya and Morocco qualified for the quarter-finals. Kenya finished top with 10 points, Morocco followed with nine, while DR Congo’s six points were not enough to progress. Angola ended with four points, while Zambia exited bottom without a single point.
For Zambia, the campaign ended in frustration. Once a powerhouse of African football, the Chipolopolo bowed out after four consecutive defeats. However, coach Avram Grant remained upbeat, insisting his side could take positives from the competition despite the poor results.
Kenya coach Engin Firat praised his players for their discipline but urged them to stay grounded ahead of the knockout stages. “We must keep our focus. The journey is far from over,” he said after the match.
Fans leaving Kasarani were jubilant, confident that their team has what it takes to make a strong run in the tournament. With the backing of home support and a resilient squad, Kenya now looks well-prepared to chase CHAN glory.
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