CHAN 24: Harambee Stars fact file ahead of kick off on Saturday

As co-hosts of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, Kenya is set to make its debut in the tournament.

Kenya are in Group A alongside Morocco, DR Congo, Zambia and Angola.

Tanzania will face Burkina Faso on Saturday, opening the matches at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium which will also host the opening ceremony.

Kenya will then play DR Congo in their first preliminary match at Kasarani on Sunday.

The Harambee Stars aim to make a statement on home soil and demonstrate their footballing progress on the continental stage. 

With a passionate fan base eager to cheer on their team, Kenya’s players and coaching staff will strive to leave a lasting impression in this historic first appearance.

Factfile

Nickname: Harambee Stars

Number of Appearances: 1st

Titles: None

FIFA Ranking: 108 (December 2024)

How They Qualified

Kenya secured their place in the CHAN 2024 tournament as one of the three co-hosting nations. This historic opportunity offers the Harambee Stars a chance to showcase their talent on one of Africa's biggest stages.

Key Players to Watch

Ryan Ogam: Playing for 13-time Kenyan champions Tusker FC, he finished as the third top scorer in the just concluded FKF Premier League. He had a remarkable first leg record, where he scored a whooping 15 goals in 13 matches. His run was however halted by injury just two matches into the second leg. He returned on the final day of the season, playing 45 minutes against Kakamega Homeboyz. An erstwhile midfielder, he was turned into a striker once he joined Tusker at the start of the season. Ogam has shown his goalscoring prowess with good technical ability and a powerful left boot.

Austine Odhiambo: A versatile player who has already scored five league goals this season and added two more during the COSAFA Cup. His creativity and vision make him a vital part of the Harambee Stars' setup.

Coach: Benni McCarthy

Head coach Benni McCarthy brings valuable experience to the team, having coached several teams in the South African top-flight as well as working with some top clubs in Europe including Manchester United. His tactical acumen will be crucial in navigating Kenya’s CHAN campaign.

Past CHAN Performances

This marks Kenya’s first-ever participation in the CHAN tournament. The Harambee Stars will look to make history by advancing as far as possible in the competition.

What to Expect

Despite being debutants, Kenya has assembled a strong and ambitious squad capable of competing for the ultimate prize. Playing on home soil could provide the additional motivation needed to deliver memorable performances.

Fan Zone

Kenyan fans have long awaited this moment, as the country has failed to qualify for the CHAN tournament since its inception in 2009. The Harambee Stars’ debut promises to ignite national pride and excitement throughout the country.