The stage is set for an exciting battle in the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, as co-hosts Kenya have been drawn into a daunting Group A alongside some of the continent’s most successful footballing nations.
This “Group of Death” promises to be a test of fire for the Harambee Stars in their debut appearance in the tournament.
Kenya will face Morocco, two-time champions (2018 & 2020), DR Congo, also two-time champions (2009 & 2016), Angola, with a fifth tournament appearance and a best finish of fourth place in 2011, and Zambia, who have reached the tournament five times and secured a bronze medal in 2009.
Morocco, with their recent dominance in the competition, and DR Congo, boasting a rich history of success, are formidable opponents. Both nations have established themselves as powerhouses in the CHAN, and Kenya will need to be at their absolute best to compete with these seasoned campaigners.
Angola, despite not reaching the summit of the tournament, brings a wealth of experience to the table, having consistently featured in the competition.
Zambia, while lacking a CHAN title, has consistently shown their competitive spirit, with their bronze medal finish in 2009 serving as a testament to their potential.
This CHAN campaign will be a baptism of fire for Kenya as they face these battle-hardened opponents.
However, co-hosting the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania provides a unique opportunity for the Harambee Stars to leverage home advantage and the passionate support of their fans to defy the odds and progress from the group stages.
Kenyan legend McDonald Mariga, who is the current FKF Vice President is optimistic of Kenya’s chances despite being drawn in the group of death.
CHAN 2024 which was originally slated for February 2025 has been postponed to August 2025 to allow for adequate preparations.