Harambee Stars Defender Daniel Sakari Reveals Importance of Burundi, Ivory Coast Games Ahead of AFCON 2027

Harambee Stars right-back Daniel Sakari has underlined the significance of Kenya’s upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Burundi and Ivory Coast, insisting they are key stepping stones in preparing for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Kenya’s qualification hopes for the 2026 World Cup have already ended, but the Kenya Police defender believes that the matches still carry great importance as the team builds towards a new era of consistency and competitiveness.

Kenya face Burundi on Thursday in Bujumbura before traveling to Abidjan to take on Ivory Coast on October 14. 

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Speaking ahead of Thursday’s clash against Burundi in Bujumbura, Sakari expressed confidence in the squad’s preparation and focus, emphasizing that the players are determined to finish the qualifiers on a high.

“We have prepared well, and we are going for all six points in the upcoming two games,” Sakari said. “We are building up gradually. It is a good foundation for the upcoming home AFCON tournament in 2027.”

The experienced full-back, who has been a consistent figure in the national setup, said the upcoming matches offer a crucial opportunity for the team to develop cohesion and tactical balance under head coach Benni McCarthy, who is looking to establish a strong core ahead of the AFCON campaign.

“It is a privilege to represent the national team, so it is a good opportunity for me to be back,” he added, reflecting on his return to the side after missing several recent international outings due to injury and competition for places.

Sakari also addressed the growing competition for the right-back position, acknowledging that the depth in the squad has forced everyone to raise their game.

With players like Daniel Anyembe (Viborg FF, Denmark), Ronney Onyango (Sogndal), and Lewis Bandi (Gor Mahia) all vying for the same spot, the battle for starting places has become more intense than ever.

“You cannot rest on your laurels. You have no time to relax,” Sakari said. “So it is a good challenge to be up against these players in the hunt for that position.”

The former Kariobangi Sharks defender believes that this competition will ultimately benefit the national team by pushing every player to perform at their highest level, both in training and during matches.

“It keeps everyone focused and sharp,” he explained. “The team wins when everyone is giving 100 percent.”