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The South African football legend has vowed to build a formidable Harambee Stars squad, warning CHAN 2024 rivals of tough competition.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has officially fired an early warning shot to Kenya’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) rivals, declaring his squad will be ready to challenge any opponent when the continental tournament kicks off this August.
After unveiling a provisional 30-man squad earlier this week, McCarthy oversaw the team’s first residential training session on Friday at the Kasarani Annex in Nairobi. The preparations mark the beginning of an intensive build-up towards a tournament that will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
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The South African football icon, who was appointed to steer Kenya’s quest for CHAN glory, sounded confident and ambitious as he addressed the press alongside Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed and Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya.
Speaking after the Harambee Stars were officially welcomed into camp, McCarthy said: “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.”
Focus on Fitness and Chemistry
Team captain Aboud Omar emphasized that the players are determined to harness their momentum from the recently concluded domestic league season, ensuring they maintain high fitness levels ahead of the continental competition.
“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.
The squad, which features a blend of experienced campaigners and promising talents, is expected to undergo rigorous tactical drills and friendly matches as part of their preparation phase.
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McCarthy has also hinted that he may trim the provisional squad before the final list of 23 players is submitted to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Kenya has been drawn into a challenging Group A alongside African heavyweights Morocco, DR Congo, Zambia, and Angola—teams with rich pedigrees and recent continental success. However, the Harambee Stars management remains confident that the home advantage and passionate support will provide a crucial boost.
Government Rallies the Nation Behind Harambee Stars
Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya called on Kenyans to unite behind the national team, framing the tournament as an opportunity not only to showcase footballing talent but also to strengthen the country’s sense of pride and solidarity.
“I urge all Kenyans to come together, not just in support of a football team, but in celebration of our unity, national pride, and unwavering patriotism. Let us show the world that supporting Harambee Stars goes beyond cheering from the stands; it is a declaration of love for our country, as one people, one flag, and one nation,” Mvurya said.
He further encouraged the players to embrace the occasion and channel the aspirations of millions of Kenyans watching them with hope and expectation.
“To our players: seize this moment! You carry the hopes and dreams of more than 50 million Kenyans. Compete with honour, and play with heart, because when you rise, Kenya rises. The nation stands firmly behind you,” he added.
CHAN 2024 tournament is now weeks away and anticipation is steadily building as the Harambee Stars seek to make history on home soil.
Fans and football stakeholders alike will be hoping McCarthy’s rallying cry is the spark that propels Kenya into the knockout rounds—and possibly beyond.
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