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Aboud Omar, who was part of the squad that famously beat Tanzania 3-2 at the 2019 AFCON, has explained why their Tuesday Mapinduzi Cup clash against Kilimanjaro Stars is important.
Harambee Stars captain Aboud Omar has underscored the significance of their upcoming Mapinduzi Cup match against Tanzania, set for Tuesday evening at 7 PM.
As part of Kenya's preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), the clash carries more than just tournament implications—it is a matter of regional pride.
The match will mark Kenya’s second outing in the competition following a controversial 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso in their opener. James Kinyanjui put Kenya ahead in the first half, but a late equalizer, allowed despite an apparent offside, denied them a winning start.
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Tanzania, who also lost their opening game 1-0 to Azam FC and Taifa Stars standout Feisal Salum, will be equally eager to bounce back. The co-hosts of the tournament face pressure to perform as they prepare for the CHAN, slated to begin on February 1, 2025.
Kenya’s chances of success have received a timely boost with the arrival of four key players—Rooney Onyango, Sylvester Owino, Austin Odhiambo, and Alphonce Omija.
The quartet, who missed the opening match due to club commitments with Gor Mahia, has joined the squad in Zanzibar, strengthening the team for the clash against Tanzania.
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Omar: A derby with pride on the line
Speaking ahead of the match, Omar emphasized the deep-rooted rivalry between the two East African nations.
“It will be a big game because I consider it a derby, and both countries have their pride on the line as neighbors,” Omar said during a pre-match press conference.
Reflecting on his experience from the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where Kenya edged Tanzania 3-2, Omar noted the challenge of facing the Taifa Stars.
“We know it will be a hard game, and all the teams are not easy opponents, especially Tanzania. Kenya is good in all three phases of play—possession, out of possession, and transitional situations. We have looked at those moments and are finding solutions to come out superior, but we must show fight and focus.”
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Tanzania’s head coach Ahmed Ally also weighed in, describing the matchup as a stern test. “Kenya is good in all three phases of play, and we have studied their style. We must be prepared to match their intensity and exploit any opportunities to win this derby.”
The Harambee Stars will conclude the group stage with a fixture against Zanzibar Heroes on Friday. The Mapinduzi Cup offers valuable game time for Kenya as they finalize preparations for CHAN, where they aim to leave a mark as co-hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
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