Harambee Stars interim coach Francis Kimanzi has been very particular in wanting his players to harness one trait if they are to defy the odds in group A of the 2024 CHAN group of death.
Harambee Stars interim coach Francis Kimanzi is adamant that a strong mindset will be the key to Kenya’s success at the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
Originally slated for February, the tournament will now take place in August, with Kenya drawn into what many are calling the ‘group of death.’
Placed in Group A alongside football powerhouses Morocco, Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia, the Harambee Stars face an uphill battle.
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As the draw was conducted at KICC’s Tsavo Ballroom on Wednesday night, attending Kenyan football stakeholders were understandably disgruntled any time Kenya were pitted against another opponent in group A of CHAN 2024. However, there are five reasons why the ‘group of death’ is a blessing in disguise for Harambee Stars.
These opponents boast impressive CHAN pedigrees, with Morocco and DRC having claimed two titles each. In such a challenging environment, Kimanzi has been clear: technical ability alone will not cut it.
Since his return to the national team last December—marking his fourth stint as coach—Kimanzi has focused on instilling resilience and mental fortitude in his players.
During the team’s preparation for the invitational Mapinduzi Cup tournament in Zanzibar, he underscored the importance of developing character as a cornerstone for competing at CHAN.
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Harambee Stars midfielder Kenneth Muguna has explained how Kenyan fans can help the national team overcome their tough Group A opponents during the 2024 CHAN tournament.
“Character is more important because we are heading out for a tournament,” Kimanzi said last December.
“The resilience is there; every single player has it. But we have to look at the character to persevere when things are so difficult. Also, we have to look at balance, which matters a lot.”
Kimanzi challenged his squad to view the Mapinduzi Cup as both a warm-up and a proving ground for CHAN 2024 selection.
“The smaller picture is to honor the Mapinduzi Cup,” he explained, “but the larger picture is that these players have the first opportunity within the framework for the CHAN tournament. Some of them will use this opportunity to show us they can maintain their positions, but for the others, all doors are open.”
Kenya’s performance in the Mapinduzi Cup reflected both promise and areas for growth. A 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso was followed by an impressive 2-0 victory over Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro Stars.
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Five things we have learnt about Harambee Stars at the ongoing Mapinduzi Cup in Pemba Islands as the side continues gearing up towards CHAN 2024.
Kimanzi praised his players for displaying the qualities he has been emphasising. “We are seeing players showing some very good character, and these games are helping build that. We want to see better mental character, and we intend to improve the team with every game.”
However, Kenya’s 1-0 loss to Zanzibar in the third match highlighted the challenges ahead. The game was marred by controversial refereeing decisions, including a heated moment that saw Aboud Omar sent off after a confrontation with the referee, who shockingly retaliated with a blow to Omar’s face.
While Kimanzi likely appreciated the team’s willingness to stand up against injustice, he will undoubtedly stress the need for composure in high-pressure situations—especially with the stakes even higher at CHAN.
After the CHAN group draw, Kimanzi reiterated the importance of mental toughness. Speaking to The New Times, he said, “I’m really looking forward to a competitive fight, and we have to show character.”
For Kenya, a country with no prior CHAN qualifications, the journey ahead will require more than just skill. It will demand perseverance, unity, and an unshakable belief in their ability to defy expectations.
