With just 4 days before their historic maiden campaign at the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, Kenya’s Harambee Stars head coach Bennie McCarthy has made late adjustments to his squad, addressing fitness concerns and reinforcing key positions.

The tournament, which Kenya is co-hosting alongside Uganda and Tanzania, kicks off this weekend, with the Harambee Stars’ highly anticipated Group A opener against two-time CHAN champions DR Congo set for this Sunday, August 3rd, at Nyayo National Stadium.

In a move to bolster the squad, McCarthy has called up defensive midfielder Chris Erambo of Tusker FC and forward Brian Michira from Shabana FC.

Additionally, Edward Omondi of Sofapaka FC, who was part of the earlier provisional squad, has been reinstated, bringing a familiar presence back into the fold.

These changes come as attacking midfielder and fan-favorite Mohamed Bejaber remains a major doubt due to a thigh injury.

Fellow players Brian Musa and Marvin Nabwire are also nursing knocks, casting shadows over their availability for the crucial opening fixture.

Despite these injury setbacks, spirits remain remarkably high within the Harambee Stars camp, buoyed by an overwhelming surge of fan interest.

Tickets for the opening clash are reportedly selling out fast, a clear testament to Kenya’s re-ignited passion for international football.

This tournament marks a significant milestone for Kenyan football, as it will be only the country’s second international match in four years, following a lengthy suspension from international football.

Their return to the global stage in March, when they hosted Gabon in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, drew a massive and enthusiastic crowd at Nyayo, underscoring the immense appetite for top-tier football in the nation.

As co-hosts of CHAN 2024, Kenya automatically qualified for the tournament. Coach McCarthy faces the dual challenge of not only shaping a competitive squad capable of navigating a tough Group A – which includes DR Congo, Angola, and Morocco – but also of reigniting national pride in a footballing landscape undergoing a significant transition.

The Harambee Stars are determined to make a strong impression on home soil, relying on courage, discipline, and the thunderous roar of their home crowd to propel them through what promises to be a challenging yet exhilarating journey.