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Gor Mahia defender Alphonce Omija has dismissed underdog claims ahead of Harambee Stars CHAN 2024.
As Kenya ramps up preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), Harambee Stars defender Alphonce Omija has sent out a bold message, dismissing the growing narrative that Kenya are mere underdogs in the upcoming continental tournament.
Omija, who plies his trade with 21-time Kenyan champions Gor Mahia and made Benni McCarthy's recent provisional squad, urged focus and belief, saying the team's goal should not just be to survive the so-called ‘Group of Death’, but to thrive.
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“This is a competition we are hosting and everyone is already giving us the underdog tag because of how established and strong our opponents are, but that should not be the case,” said Omija as quoted by Nation Sports.
The towering defender believes the conversation needs to shift from Kenya’s odds to the quality of their preparation.
“The debate should not be on Kenya’s chances of progressing from their group, but on how to better prepare for the tournament and win our matches,” he emphasized.
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Group of Giants or Opportunity?
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Kenya's Group ‘A’ fixtures will take place at the newly refurbished Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, one of the CHAN 2024 host venues.
Harambee Stars are scheduled to face formidable opposition, including two-time champions Morocco and DR Congo, as well as heavyweights Angola and Zambia.
Despite the challenging draw, Omija maintains that Kenya has what it takes to compete and emerge successfully.
“We can perform well and win matches perceived to be the toughest so long as we prepare well and remain confident,” he asserted, calling on fans and stakeholders to rally behind the team.
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With home advantage and the growing talent pool from the FKF Premier League, Kenya has a unique chance to shake off past disappointments and make a deep run in the tournament.
Omija’s comments reflect the spirit within the squad as they prepare to defy expectations and prove that the underdog tag is misplaced.
The CHAN 2024 tournament, exclusively featuring players active in their respective national leagues, offers a vital platform for Kenya’s homegrown talent to shine.
For Omija and his teammates, it is not just about competing, but rewriting the narrative.
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