Harambee Stars loses CHAN warm-up friendly against combined side
.jpg)
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 15.07.25. | 16:34
The match formed part of McCarthy’s build-up strategy as Kenya gears up for its maiden appearance at CHAN
Harambee Stars commenced their preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on a sour note following a 2-1 loss to Team Sharks Family in a low-key friendly played at Kasarani Annex Grounds.
Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News
Team Sharks Family, comprised of former Kariobangi Sharks players, proved a worthy opponent, with goals from Eli Asieche and Shaphan Oyugi handing Benni McCarthy’s side their first test in camp.
The national team’s only goal came in the first half through Austine Odhiambo.
The Stars, played three halves, that ended in 1-0win, 0-0 draw and 2-0 beating.
The match formed part of McCarthy’s build-up strategy as Kenya gears up for its maiden appearance at CHAN, a tournament reserved for players competing in their domestic leagues.
Harambee Stars reported to residential training last week and were officially welcomed by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, who promised an ‘irresistible’ reward package for the team ahead of the tournament.
“Recently, I announced an improved reward scheme for our athletes. I will soon convene a meeting to announce a special package for Harambee Stars before CHAN,” Mvurya said.
He urged the team to seize the moment, saying the tournament is more than just a football competition.
“This is a journey towards greatness, a national mission. You carry the dreams of 50 million Kenyans. Wear the jersey with pride. Representing your country on home soil is a great honour,” he added.
Kenya will co-host CHAN 2024 alongside regional neighbours Uganda and Tanzania from Saturday, 2 to Sunday, 31 August.
Stars will play all their Group A matches at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Their campaign begins against DR Congo on Sunday, 3 August, before facing Angola (Thursday, 7 August ), Morocco (Sunday, 10 August), and Zambia (Sunday, 17 August).
A select side of former Kariobangi Sharks FC players defeated the Harambee Stars CHAN team 2-1 in a friendly match held this morning at Kasarani Stadium.
— Ole Teya (@TeyaKevin) July 15, 2025
Eli Asieche and Saphan Oyugi found the back of the net for the former Sharks players.#FootballKE pic.twitter.com/zk4Zu70ADd
Nyayo Stadium is set to host other Group A fixtures as well as select Group C matches, including Niger versus Algeria.
Training sessions for the national side will be held at Police Sacco Stadium, Ulinzi Complex, and Utalii Grounds.
The team is expected to play more build-up matches as McCarthy and his technical bench continue fine-tuning tactics and combinations ahead of what promises to be a historic tournament for Kenyan football.
