Kenya set sights on CHAN 2024 glory as team reports to camp
Kenya's national team has officially begun preparations for the upcoming TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, reporting to camp just over three weeks ahead of their opening Group A fixture.
A provisional 30-man squad of the Harambee Stars is currently training at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani Annex in Nairobi, adjacent to the main stadium that will host all of Kenya's group matches.
The players were formally welcomed by Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, and Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed.
The government has pledged its full support, with the aim of ensuring that Kenya delivers a strong performance and competes for the title on home soil.
'This is your moment to carry the hopes of over 50 million Kenyans,' said CS Mvurya.
'Wear the jersey with pride, purpose, and patriotism. Representing your country at home is a rare honour. Play with heart, and compete with dignity.'
He added: 'As the government, we are committed to providing everything necessary to support your preparation. This is Kenya's chance to shine on the continental stage and showcase our talent to the world. We also remain committed to delivering a successful CHAN tournament and hope to see our national team reach the podium.'
Kenya will be making its debut in the CHAN, courtesy of its role as one of three co-hosts of the tournament, alongside East African neighbours Uganda and Tanzania.
Despite being newcomers, there is growing optimism in the Harambee Stars camp, with head coach Benni McCarthy confident in the team's readiness.
'In three weeks, we'll have a team that no one wants to face. We're preparing the best way possible because I believe we've selected a strong, competitive squad. Everyone is eager for this challenge,' McCarthy said.
Captain Aboud Omar echoed his coach's confidence, highlighting the motivation of playing in front of a home crowd.
'We know our fans will be behind us, supporting and motivating us all the way. Our focus now is on training hard and building strong team chemistry. The league just ended recently, so our match fitness is intact—now it's about adapting to the coach's system,' Omar stated.
Kenya has been drawn into a challenging Group A that includes former champions DR Congo and Morocco, as well as Zambia and Angola.
The Harambee Stars open their campaign against DR Congo on 3 August.
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