Harambee Stars attacking midfielder Austin Odhiambo has expressed that Kenya’s placement in a challenging group for the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 presents a great opportunity for the players to showcase their talents and skills.
Kenya was drawn into a tough Group A alongside African powerhouses Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola and Zambia.
The continental tournament, which features players from domestic leagues, was rescheduled to August after initially being set for February with Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania set to jointly co-host the 19-team tourney.
Play here and stand a chance of winning the over Ksh 399 million SportPesa Mega Jackpot
As one of the key players for reigning Kenyan champions Gor Mahia, Odhiambo stated that despite being placed in what is regarded as the “group of death,” he remains optimistic.
He believes the challenge will provide the players with an excellent platform to demonstrate their talents, adding that every player relishes the chance to compete in such tough matches.
“For me, I think it’s a good challenge and an opportunity for the players who will represent our country,” Odhiambo told SportPesa Blog.
“Big players look forward to big matches, and facing Morocco and DRC—those are the kind of games people want to play in. So for me, I believe this is a great opportunity for Kenyan players to showcase their skills.”
When asked about his personal goals for the tournament, the Gor Mahia captain refrained from offering an early verdict.
He noted that since the tournament has been postponed, he is uncertain whether he will be part of the squad in August.
ALSO READ: Kenya faces challenging opponents in Group A for CHAN 2024
“With CHAN being postponed to August, I don’t know if I will be part of the squad. It might happen, or it might not; I’m not really sure,” he concluded.
With the postponement of the tournament, the Football Kenya Federation now has ample time to scout and select players who will be ready to face these formidable African teams in August.
Full CHAN 2024 draw
Group A
Kenya, Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, Zambia
Group B
Tanzania, Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic
Group C
Uganda, Niger, Guinea, Q2, Q1
Group D
Senegal, Congo, Sudan, Nigeria