The Harambee Stars face an uphill task in the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) after being drawn into Pool A alongside heavyweights Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Angola, and Zambia.
The draw, conducted at the Tsavo Ballroom on Wednesday night, sparked widespread reactions, with many labeling it the “Group of Death.”
Morocco and DRC bring a formidable pedigree, with each having won the CHAN title twice. DRC claimed the inaugural title in 2009 and their second in 2016, while Morocco clinched consecutive championships in 2018 and 2020. Angola and Zambia have also had strong performances, with Angola finishing as runners-up in 2011 and Zambia taking bronze in 2009.
Despite the daunting challenge, Kenyan football stakeholders are optimistic. Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President McDonald Mariga exuded confidence, emphasizing that the team’s historical success against Morocco on home soil could provide a morale boost.
“I understand why many are apprehensive, but whenever we’ve faced Morocco at home, we’ve triumphed. This gives us hope. We have six months to prepare adequately, scout the best talent, and be ready to face these giants,” Mariga said.
Former Harambee Stars striker Allan Wanga echoed these sentiments, viewing the challenging draw as a motivator for the players to elevate their preparations. “Tough opponents push players to work harder. Facing teams like Angola, with their strong local league, is a unique opportunity to showcase our abilities,” Wanga remarked.
The optimism extends beyond Kenya. Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) President Moses Hassim Magogo expressed solidarity with Kenya and Tanzania, the other co-hosts, and voiced hopes that the trophy remains within East Africa. “As East Africa, we share more than borders. We are united in ensuring the CHAN trophy stays in this region,” Magogo said.
Kenya Police midfielder Kenneth Muguna emphasized the importance of local support, particularly for the opening match, which could set the tone for the tournament. “A packed stadium will be crucial. Fans are the 12th man, and we need their energy to propel us forward,” Muguna noted.
Assistant coach John ‘Guardiola’ Kamau highlighted the importance of intensified preparations, stating that the team is already 80% ready following their recent participation in the Mapinduzi Cup. “We need eight training sessions monthly and improvements in our league quality to close the gap. This group is challenging, but it’s a test we are ready to tackle,” Kamau affirmed.
Although the draw appears less favorable for Kenya compared to their co-hosts, it presents an opportunity to reignite the nation’s footballing spirit. Tanzania, placed in Pool B, will face Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic, while Uganda will compete in Pool C against Niger, Guinea, and two yet-to-qualify teams.
The stakes are high for Kenya, but with the right preparation, determination, and fan support, the group of death could serve as a turning point for Kenyan football, proving that the team is ready to compete with the continent’s best.
