Harambee Stars are set for their toughest test yet in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as they face Morocco in a decisive Group A clash at Kasarani Stadium. Sitting top of the table after a 1-0 victory over DR Congo and a gritty 1-1 draw with Angola, Kenya are on the brink of making history. A win today would make them only the third debutant team to reach the knockout stages of the competition.
Head coach Benni McCarthy is confident but cautious, acknowledging Morocco’s unpredictable nature. He expects the Atlas Lions to start aggressively, look for an early goal, and then drop into a compact shape to counter-attack. According to McCarthy, the key to victory will be discipline, organisation, and taking chances when they come.
Kenya’s likely starting XI blends experience and youthful energy. Byrne Omondi is expected to keep his place in goal after steady performances, despite a costly error against Angola. Daniel Sakari should start at right-back, offering both defensive assurance and the ability to tuck into midfield. On the left, captain Abud Omar will lead from the back, providing balance in defence and attack.
In central defence, Alphonce Omija and Sylvester Owino have impressed with their no-nonsense approach and crucial goal-line clearances. Manzur Okwaro will anchor midfield, disrupting Morocco’s rhythm, while Alpha Onyango offers composure and progressive passing from a deeper role.
Creative duties will fall to Austin Odhiambo in the number 10 role, looking to feed the attack with incisive passes. David Sakwa, if fully fit, should provide width and direct running on the left, while Edward ‘Ondimo’ Omondi is expected to retain his spot on the right after a lively debut. Ryan Ogam could lead the line, bringing work rate and defensive pressing from the front.
Kenya will be relying on their passionate home support at Kasarani to push them over the line. Morocco’s technical quality and tactical flexibility make them dangerous, but if the Harambee Stars execute their game plan and remain disciplined, they stand a real chance of upsetting one of Africa’s most respected footballing nations and booking their spot in the knockout stage
