Abuya backs Harambee Stars for CHAN success
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 29.07.25. | 08:06
The Stars, however, head into the tournament under less-than-ideal circumstances
Harambee Stars midfielder Duke Abuya has thrown his support behind the national team ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which kicks off this Saturday and will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Kenya, currently in camp, has been placed in Group A, widely regarded as the tournament’s "Group of Death," alongside former champions Morocco and DR Congo, a strong Angola side, and Zambia.
The Stars, however, head into the tournament under less-than-ideal circumstances, having yet to face any high-profile opposition in preparation. Their warm-up matches have included games against a team of Kariobangi Sharks alumni and Kenya Police FC, encounters that fall short of the competitive level expected at CHAN.
Despite the challenges, Abuya, who just sealed a permanent move to Tanzanian giants Yanga SC from Kenya Police FC following a successful loan spell, remains optimistic about the youthful squad’s chances.
“It’s a team made up of young players, and I believe they have a good chance to do well if they stick to the coach’s instructions,” Abuya told Telecomasia. “Coach Benni has put together a really solid squad that can compete with the best on the continent.”
Abuya also emphasized the role of head coach Benni McCarthy, expressing confidence in his leadership and the technical bench.
“Benni is a top coach who knows what he’s doing. The staff around him is also strong. It’s not an easy group, but if the boys stay disciplined and play to plan, I believe they’ll get results. We’ll be there to support them all the way.”
Kenya will open their CHAN campaign on Sunday with a clash against DR Congo, before facing Morocco, Angola and Zambia in the remaining group matches.
Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 squad
Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Sebastian Wekesa
Defenders: Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Pamba Swaleh, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Mike Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu
Midfielders: Brian Musa, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire
Forwards: Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, Brian Michira, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam, Masoud Juma, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch
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