The Stars were uninspiring in the qualifier but the Stars assistant coach is optimistic of impressive show on home soil
Harambee Stars assistant coach Ken Odhiambo is confident the Stars will put up a decent show in the African Nations Championships (CHAN) tournament set for next year.
His sentiments come after the football fraternity was left in shock as Kenya produced a lethargic performance against minnows South Sudan in the qualifiers, with stakeholders wanting the Football Kenya Federation to cut losses with head coach Engin Firat.
16:19 - 09.11.2024
Ian Otieno reveals the goalkeeping great who inspires his pursuit of Richards Bay’s No.1 spot
Harambee Stars goalkeeper Ian Otieno has expressed admiration for a renowned goalkeeping figure and is determined to help Richards Bay reach the Carling Knockout final after last season's semifinal setback.
Despite the heartbreak in the qualifiers, the former Sofapaka coach tipped the Stars to come good in the biennial championship that will be co-hosted by Kenya Uganda and Tanzania from February 1-28.
Odhiambo, who doubles up as Bandari FC head coach, believes that there is sufficient time to prepare the team well for the tournament and ultimately, give Kenyans something to celebrate about.
“Our leagues will not be interrupted after the November international break which will allow our players to be in rhythm and with the right momentum. There is time to work on the mistakes we noticed in the qualifiers," he told SportsBoom.
14:54 - 08.11.2024
Harambee Stars assistant coach explains why Kenya lost to South Sudan Sudan in CHAN 2024 qualifier
Harambee Stars had already secured a ticket to next year's showpiece by being co-hosts, but still took part in the qualifiers against South Sudan, where they lost 3-1 on aggregate
Kenya lost the first leg 2-0 at the Juba National Stadium and were unconvincing in the 1-1 draw in the return leg, a match played at Mandela Stadium in Uganda. The Stars will be buoyed playing in front of their home fans for the first time in a while during CHAN, after being denied the chance in previous assignments.
Harambee Stars Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers for the 2025 showpiece in Morocco have all been played away from home. This has deprived the team of the 12th man because home support is crucial in matches.