Harambee Stars Captain Aboud Omar Downplays Pressure of Playing in Front of Overwhelming Home Crowd at CHAN 2024

Harambee Stars captain Aboud Omar has dismissed suggestions that Kenya will be under pressure playing at home in the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), instead describing the opportunity as a major motivational boost for the squad.

With Kenya set to play in front of home crowd in the continental competition, all eyes will be on the national team as they compete in Group A, which features former champions DR Congo and Morocco, alongside strong sides Zambia and Angola.

Despite the difficult draw, Omar exudes calm and confidence.

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“Playing at home is a huge advantage for us and not really pressure,” said Omar as quoted by CAF Online.

“Of course, there is huge expectation from everyone that we will do well, but we are turning that into motivation. We have some experienced players in the team, and we have played under immense pressure before, so this will not be tough on us," he added.

All of Kenya’s group stage matches will be staged at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani in Nairobi, a venue that Omar believes could prove crucial in energizing the squad.

With the tournament opener scheduled for August 3 against DR Congo, Omar is optimistic the team can make a strong statement early in the campaign.

“It is a tough group, but to be the best, you have to beat the best,” said the skipper, who recently played a key role in helping Police FC win the FKF Premier League title.

“We are focused on our preparation at the moment and just ensuring we have a team that plays together and plays with heart.”

The Harambee Stars began residential training this week, shifting focus to building team chemistry and tactical readiness as the tournament nears.

For head coach Benni McCarthy and technical staff, the goal is to foster unity and instill belief ahead of Kenya’s much-anticipated CHAN action.