CHAN 2024: Harambee Stars vs Zambia Starting XI Announced

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has revealed his starting XI to face Zambia in their final Group A clash at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Kenya has already sealed a place in the quarter-finals, but this game carries immense importance, as victory would secure top spot in the group and set up a date with Madagascar.

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A draw or loss, however, means a meeting with Tanzania in the last eight.

The Stars have enjoyed a solid run in Group A. They began their campaign with a 1-0 victory over DR Congo, before holding Angola to a 1-1 draw.

McCarthy’s men then stunned Morocco with another narrow but famous 1-0 win, sealing progression with a game to spare.

“The players have shown great discipline and commitment so far,” McCarthy noted ahead of the match.

"We respect Zambia, but we want to finish top of the group. To do that, we must attack with confidence and defend with intelligence.”

Zambia, meanwhile, heads to Kasarani needing a consolation win after being eliminated from the competition.

Their midfield strength and direct play have troubled opponents throughout the tournament, and McCarthy’s side will need to remain compact while exploiting spaces on the counter.

The last time these two sides met at the international level, Zambia edged Kenya narrowly.

But with the Kasarani crowd behind them and a well-drilled squad, the Harambee Stars will fancy their chances of reversing that outcome.

Should Kenya win, they top Group A and avoid regional rivals Tanzania in the last eight.

The added incentive of momentum going into the knockout stages means McCarthy is unlikely to rotate heavily, instead sticking with the core players who have delivered so far.

Kick-off at Kasarani is set for 16:00 local time, with fans expected to turn out in large numbers to roar the Stars on.

Kenya XI: Shikhallo Faruk, Abud Omar, Mike Kibwage, Alpha Onyango, Austine Odhiambo, Lewis Bandi, Wesley Ogam, Ben Stanley Omondi, David Sakwa, Marvin Nabwire, Sylvester Owino

Subs; Bryne Omondi, Mohammed Siraji , Edward Omondi, Bonface Muchiri, Chrispine Erambo, Ayoub Mouloua, Manzur Okwaro, Daniel Sakari, Kevin Okumu, Sepstianos Wekesa, Felix Oluoch