With the Confederation of African Football confirming that the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani will host the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) on August 30, expectations are soaring for the Harambee Stars to make a mark. The pressure is mounting not only from fans but also from notable football figures within Kenya, who believe this is a golden opportunity for the national team to deliver.
Among those voicing high expectations is Posta Rangers head coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo, who believes Kenya must take full advantage of hosting the tournament. He emphasized that Harambee Stars should consider this moment as a national duty to inspire hope, elevate local football, and give fans something to rally behind. According to him, failing to reach the final would be deeply disappointing and a missed opportunity to showcase Kenyan football talent on home soil.
Kenya’s automatic qualification as host offers a unique advantage that must not be squandered. The CHAN tournament is exclusively for players who ply their trade in their domestic leagues, making it a crucial platform to elevate unknown talents to the continental stage. It also acts as a precursor for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania. In this light, CHAN is not just about winning it’s a rehearsal, a confidence booster, and a foundation for bigger goals.
Pamzo warned that if Harambee Stars fail to make it to the final, local supporters might be forced to back foreign teams, which would diminish the national pride tied to hosting such a major event. He urged the players and the technical bench to seize this opportunity with both hands and push themselves to the limit, not just for personal glory but for the country.
The call is also a challenge to head coach Benni McCarthy, under whom expectations are especially high. With home advantage, familiar conditions, and passionate fans behind them, Kenya has what it takes to go far in the tournament. But it will all depend on preparation, focus, and commitment from the team and its management.
CHAN will also provide valuable experience in managing international tournaments, improving facilities, and testing organizational readiness ahead of AFCON 2027. The lessons learned in logistics, crowd management, and team support will be critical in ensuring Kenya is ready for a much bigger stage.
The stage is set, and the countdown has begun. For Harambee Stars, CHAN 2025 isn’t just another tournament it is a chance to make history and ignite a footballing renaissance.
