DR Congo and Algeria Warn Harambee Stars With CHAN 2024 Friendly

Harambee Stars CHAN opener opponents DR Congo against celebrate win against Guinea. (Photo Credit: CAF/X)

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Harambee Stars CHAN opener opponents DR Congo against celebrate win against Guinea. (Photo Credit: CAF/X)

DR Congo and Algeria Warn Harambee Stars With CHAN 2024 Friendly

Stephen Awino 13:30 - 16.07.2025

DR Congo have ramped up CHAN 2024 preparations, sending a clear warning to Kenya ahead of their August 3 opener.

Kenya's 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign is set to begin with a stern test as Group A opponents DR Congo prepare for a high-profile warm-up match against African heavyweights Algeria.

The two-time CHAN champions will wrap up a training camp in Kinshasa on July 20 before jetting off to North Africa for a final tune-up phase running from July 21 to 30.

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DRC Eyes Competitive Edge With Algeria Test

DR Congo during a past 1-1 draw against Morocco. (Photo Credit: AJE Sport/X)
DR Congo during a past 1-1 draw against Morocco. (Photo Credit: AJE Sport/X)

DR Congo's decision to schedule a friendly with 2019 AFCON champions Algeria underscores their serious intentions ahead of the tournament.

With Group A dubbed the “Group of Death”, featuring co-hosts Kenya, Morocco, Angola, and Zambia, DRC’s clash with Algeria is expected to sharpen their competitive edge.

“This camp and the friendly against Algeria are crucial for testing our level,” a member of Otis Ngoma’s technical team told CAF Online.

The 36-man home-based squad aims to use the match to simulate high-stakes tournament pressure ahead of their August 3 showdown with Kenya at Kasarani Stadium.

Harambee Stars Step Up Regional Preparations

Harambee Stars
The Harambee Stars training. (Inset: Benni McCarthy)

In response, Kenya’s Harambee Stars have intensified their own preparations.

Head coach Benni McCarthy will lead the team in a regional mini-CECAFA tournament, taking on Uganda Cranes on July 21 and Tanzania’s Taifa Stars on July 24.

These fixtures will serve as critical dress rehearsals for the opening CHAN fixture against DR Congo, as Kenya aims to make a strong statement on home soil.