- Harambee Stars have pulled out of the Four Nations Tournament, which was set to kick off today, Monday, July 21, in Karatu, Tanzania.
- Head coach Benni McCarthy cited poor logistical arrangements, including substandard accommodation and an unsuitable training ground, as the primary reasons for the withdrawal.
The men’s national football team, Harambee Stars, has officially withdrawn from the CECAFA Four Nations Tournament, which was scheduled to kick off today, Monday, July 21, in Tanzania.
In a press release issued by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) on Monday morning, the federation cited poor organization and unsatisfactory conditions as the reasons behind the withdrawal.
The decision was made following consultations with the team’s technical bench headed by South African tactician Benni McCarthy.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) wishes to inform the public that the Harambee Stars have withdrawn from the CECAFA Four Nations Tournament in Tanzania,” the FKF statement read.
This decision has been made following recommendations and advice from the team’s technical bench, led by Head Coach Benni McCarthy, after a thorough assessment of the prevailing conditions, which were deemed unsuitable for the team’s participation and overall preparation.”
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The 25-man squad is now expected to return to Kenya as they intensify preparations for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, set for August.
“The team will return to Kenya and resume preparations for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, with full focus now shifting to ensuring optimal readiness for the assignment ahead.
FKF remains committed to providing the national team with the best possible environment to compete and represent the country with pride,” the statement further noted.
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Harambee Stars had intended to use the CECAFA tournament as a platform to fine-tune their readiness for CHAN.
Their sudden withdrawal, just hours before they were set to face Tanzania in the opening fixture scheduled for 3:00 PM, marks a significant shift in their buildup strategy.
Harambee Stars departed the country on Saturday and were initially scheduled to face Uganda in their opening match of the tournament.
However, due to logistical setbacks experienced by Senegal, the organizers were compelled to revise the fixture list resulting in Kenya being matched against the host nation in the tournament opener.
Harambee Stars third team to withdraw from the competition
Prior to Kenya’s exit, two other nations had already pulled out.
The first was Sudan, who opted out to focus on preparations for the upcoming CHAN tournament.
Citing the need to prioritize their domestic league which recently commenced Sudan formally requested to skip the event.
Congo Brazzaville had earlier confirmed their participation but later rescinded their commitment due to logistical constraints.
Their withdrawal led to Senegal being included in the revised lineup.
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Now, just a day after the fixtures were reshuffled, Kenya has also pulled out.
Only three nations remain in the competition: Uganda (the host), Tanzania, and Senegal.
Harambee Stars are expected to return home as they shift focus to the CHAN 2024 qualifiers. Their campaign begins against DR Congo on August 3rd at 3:00 PM, at Kasarani Stadium.