Kenya face Zambia in their final CHAN 2024 Group A clash, seeking supremacy at home, while the Chipolopolo fight for pride after early exit.
Kenya may have already sealed qualification for the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, but their final Group A clash against Zambia on Sunday in Nairobi carries much more significance than a routine fixture.
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The Harambee Stars, unbeaten so far, sit top of the group with seven points after victories over Morocco and DR Congo. Head coach Benni McCarthy has urged his players to approach the Zambia match with the same hunger that has fueled their campaign.
“When people called this the Group of Death, nobody expected us to be here,” McCarthy said. “But we’ve shown we can compete with the best. Tomorrow is about making a statement that we are here to challenge for the title.”
Defender Daniel Sakari echoed the coach’s determination, highlighting the importance of home support at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
“We want to finish on a high and make our country proud. The fans have been incredible, and we want to reward them with another win.”
For Zambia, the encounter represents a fight for pride after three straight defeats ended their campaign prematurely. Coach Avram Grant admitted the Chipolopolo are in transition but remains keen on a strong finish.
“Yes, this is our last game, but the aim is to win,” Grant said. “This tournament has been about testing new players and preparing for the future. Kenya are a strong side, but we must show progress.”
Captain Kelvin Kampamba added that the team owes their supporters a better performance. “We want to bow out with our heads held high. It won’t be easy, but we will fight for a win.”
The match rekindles a long rivalry between the two nations, with Zambia historically dominant. But this time, Kenya enter as favorites, chasing supremacy on home soil.
