'Go Make it Count!' -Michael Olunga Sends Harambee Stars Squad for CHAN 2024 Inspirational Message

Michael Olunga has sent his fellow Harambee Stars players an inspirational message as they prepare to embark on their CHAN 2024 escapade at Kasarani Stadium.

Harambee Stars striker Michael Olunga has sent a rousing message of support to his fellow local-based teammates set to represent Kenya at the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 on home soil.

Olunga, who rose through the ranks of Kenyan football with Thika United, Tusker, and Gor Mahia before launching his professional career with Sweden’s Djurgårdens IF in 2016, addressed the squad from Qatar via a motivational video shared on the official Harambee Stars X (formerly Twitter) page.

“I know you guys are well prepared and motivated, starting from the players and technical bench,” said Olunga.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

“I know you are ready to achieve and we are fully behind you and supporting you from a distance.

"Go make it count. Let’s go Kenya!”

Kenya is set to make its maiden appearance in the CHAN tournament with a high-stakes opener against two-time champions DR Congo today, Sunday, August 3, at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium, with kick-off slated for 3:00 PM EAT.

The tournament, which exclusively features players active in their respective domestic leagues, is a golden opportunity for the Harambee Stars to make a strong first impression, especially with the weight of home expectations and support behind them.

A Historic Group Stage Awaits the Harambee Stars

Kenya’s Group A campaign continues with a landmark fixture against Angola on Thursday, August 7, a game that will go down in history as the first competitive national team match played under floodlights in over two decades.

This will be followed by a daunting clash with 2018 champions Morocco on Sunday, August 10, before wrapping up the group stage against Zambia on Sunday, August 17.

South African tactician Benni McCarthy, who was appointed head coach in March, is eyeing both his first competitive win and a potential deep run in the tournament. However, preparations haven’t been smooth.

McCarthy’s plans were disrupted by the departure of key players, including FKF Premier League top scorer Moses Shumah and runner-up Emmanuel Osoro, both of whom moved to Zambia’s Power Dynamos.

Further setbacks included injuries to midfielder Brian Musa, heart complications affecting Swaleh Pamba, and the imminent transfer of midfielder Mohamed Bajaber to Simba SC.

Despite the turbulence, McCarthy has assembled a competitive 25-man squad packed with promising local talent, determined to defy the odds and deliver a memorable CHAN campaign.