Harambee Stars head into their decisive CHAN 2024 group stage encounter against Zambia knowing exactly what is at stake in the push for a place in the quarter-finals. With the identity of their potential opponents now clear, Kenya must secure top spot in Group A to guarantee a more favorable path.
The equation is simple for the Kenyan side: a win against Chipolopolo will see them finish top and secure a quarter-final clash against Madagascar in Nairobi. Such an outcome is highly desirable for both the players and fans, who want to avoid the daunting prospect of facing Tanzania in Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania sealed top spot in Group B after a goalless draw with Central African Republic, finishing on 10 points. Madagascar, meanwhile, snatched second place after a crucial 2-1 victory over Burkina Faso. The island nation advanced on superior goal difference ahead of Mauritania, despite both teams finishing level on points and drawing their head-to-head clash earlier in the group stages.
This result means that Kenya’s potential opponents are well defined: finishing first in Group A sets up a Nairobi tie with Madagascar, while slipping to second leaves the Harambee Stars with a much trickier trip to Dar es Salaam to face Tanzania.
A draw against Zambia could still be enough for Kenya to top Group A, but only if the clash between DR Congo and Morocco also ends level. In that scenario, Harambee Stars would finish on eight points, while both DR Congo and Morocco would remain on seven each. However, relying on results elsewhere is a risk the team will want to avoid, making victory over Zambia the surest path to a favorable quarter-final.
The stakes could not be higher for Benni McCarthy’s men, who have impressed so far with disciplined performances and a growing belief within the camp. The players are aware that finishing first not only keeps them in Nairobi but also boosts their chances of progressing deeper into the tournament by avoiding one of the competition’s favorites early on.
As the group decider approaches, all eyes will be on whether Harambee Stars can rise to the occasion, beat Zambia, and set up a potentially historic run in the CHAN 2024 tournament.
