DR Congo and Algeria Warn Harambee Stars With CHAN 2024 Friendly

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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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.

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.