- Harambee Stars are set to host all their Africa Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) Group A matches at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
- Kenya will co-host the continental tournament from August 2 to August 30, alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
- Aboud Omar says hosting the matches on home turf is an advantage, not a source of pressure.
Harambee Stars skipper Aboud Omar is confident that Kenya will excel in their matches at the upcoming Africa Nations Championship (CHAN 2024), especially with the home advantage of hosting all their group stage fixtures.
The tournament is set to commence in under three weeks, with Kenya co-hosting alongside Uganda and Tanzania from August 2 to August 30.
Making their debut in this prestigious competition exclusively featuring players from domestic leagues, Kenya has been drawn into a formidable Group A, alongside former champions DR Congo and Morocco, as well as Zambia and Angola.
Omar, who recentl y lifted the Kenya Premier League title with Kenya Police, has been entrusted with the captain’s armband for a second time, having previously led the squad during the Mapinduzi Cup in Tanzania this past January.
The veteran left-back is among the 30 players named in Benni McCarthy’s provisional squad currently in training.
Omar has emphasized that playing on home soil is not a burden but rather a strategic edge that will fuel their ambition.
“Playing at home is a huge advantage for us and not really pressure,” Omar told CAF Media.
“Of course, there is huge expectation from everyone that we will do well, but we are turning that into motivation.
“We have some experienced players in the team, and we have played under immense pressure before, so this will not be tough on us.”
All of Kenya’s group stage encounters will be held at the iconic renovated Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Nairobi, a venue Omar believes can become their fortress during the tournament.
Kenya kicks off its campaign against DR Congo on August 3, and Omar is adamant they possess both the skill and mindset to launch their journey on a high note.
“It is a tough group, but to be the best, you have to beat the best,” said Omar.
“We are focused on our preparation at the moment and just ensuring we have a team that plays together and plays with heart.”
ALSO READ: Kenya’s Harambee Stars: What you need to know about CHAN 2024
The provisional squad reported to training camp on July 10, ahead of their participation in the CECAFA Four-Nation Tournament, slated for July 24–27, 2025, at Karatu Stadium in Arusha, Tanzania.
The tournament will serve as a crucial warm-up for CHAN 2024.
Kenya’s CHAN 2024 Group A fixtures and kickoff times (All at Moi Sports Centre Kasarani)
- Kenya vs DR Congo – Sunday, August 3 – 3:00 PM
- Angola vs Kenya – Thursday, August 7 – 7:00 PM
- Harambee Stars vs Morocco – Sunday, August 10 – 3:00 PM
- Zambia vs Kenya – Sunday, August 17 – 3:00 PM
Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers
Farouk Shikhalo, Sebastian Wekesa, Brian Opondo
Defenders
Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Pamba Swaleh, Aboud Omar, Alphonse Omija, Sylvester Owino, Michael Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu
Midfielders
Brian Musa, Kelly Madada, Keith Imbali, Alpha Onyango, Mathias Isogoli, Staphod Odhiambo, Austine Odhiambo, Ben Stanley
Forwards
Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Emmanuel Osoro, Yakeen Muteheli, Edward Omondi, Ryan Ogam, Moses Shummah, Beja Nyamawi