Kenya’s Harambee Stars are preparing for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which they will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda. Defender Michael Kibwage has shared insights on how the team plans to survive what is widely considered the toughest group of the tournament. Drawn in Group A alongside DR Congo, Angola, Zambia, and Morocco, Kenya faces a formidable challenge, but Kibwage remains confident that tactical discipline and defensive solidity can make the difference.
Kibwage, who returned to the national team setup for the first time since 2020, is competing for a starting role in central defense. He will battle for a spot against established defenders such as Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija, and Swaleh Pamba. The Tusker FC player expressed his excitement about being back in the national fold, describing the atmosphere in camp as “fantastic” and full of energy. He emphasized the importance of discipline, hard work, and a strong mentality to navigate the group stage successfully.
Representing Kenya, according to Kibwage, comes with immense responsibility. “I know it will not be easy, but I am ready. I am representing 50 million Kenyans, and I have to make the most of this opportunity. We are working hard to make the country proud,” he said. He believes that game management will be vital, particularly against high-quality opponents. “In matches like these, you need to keep the game tight. The longer the game stays at 0-0, the better your chances of getting a positive result,” he added.
Kenya was initially scheduled to take part in the CECAFA Four Nations Tournament in Arusha as part of their preparations, but the team withdrew citing “unfavorable conditions.” Despite the setback, Kibwage insists that the team’s training sessions have been productive and that they will be ready when CHAN begins.
Teammate Kevin Okumu, who plays as a right back for KCB, is also gearing up for his first major tournament. Okumu acknowledged that representing the national team is a different challenge compared to club football, but he remains optimistic about the team’s chances. “My fans should expect us to win. I am confident we can have a good tournament,” he said.
With this being Kenya’s first CHAN appearance since 2009, there is a renewed sense of hope that the team can defy the odds and make it out of the “Group of Death.”
