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CHAN: Harambee Stars get KTB backing ahead of crucial Morocco match

CHAN: Harambee Stars get KTB backing ahead of crucial Morocco match
Harambee Stars players before the match. PHOTO/@KasaraniStadium/X

The Harambee Stars will be looking to maintain their unbeaten run when they face Morocco in a high-stakes African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A clash at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Sunday, August 10, 2025.

The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has thrown its weight behind the national side, calling on Kenyans to rally behind the team as they seek to edge closer to the knockout stages.

The endorsement comes after a spirited 1-1 draw against Angola on Thursday, August 7, where Kenya played with ten men for most of the match yet still salvaged a point, igniting fresh hope among fans.

In a statement, KTB said the fixture presents a unique opportunity to showcase Kenya’s unity and cultural pride to the world. “It’s match day! Let’s turn our excitement into support and cheer our team on to victory. We are proud to stand with the Harambee Stars, showcasing the power and passion of our country on the world stage,” read the message in part. The board also urged fans to fill the stadium, describing their cheers as the “ultimate show of Kenyan spirit.”

KTB statement on Harambee Stars match with Morocco. PHOTO/@magicalkenya/X

Fan fever rising

The support has been echoed by political leaders, with Mumias East MP Peter Salasya promising a rather unconventional show of enthusiasm. Known for his theatrical approach, Salasya declared he would watch the game shirtless, citing the expected high temperatures. “I am not a football fan, but I am fan number 001 of the Harambee Stars,” he wrote on X.

Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi also lauded the team’s fighting spirit, calling their performance against Angola “incredible resilience and determination” and urging them to carry the same energy into the Morocco encounter.

Tactical focus

Coach Benni McCarthy is anticipating a tough contest against the two-time CHAN champions, describing Morocco as “unpredictable” and dangerous on the counterattack. “They always take the game to you early, invite you to attack, and then look to hit back. For us, it’s about discipline and keeping our defensive and midfield lines tight. If we can do that, we will get our chances,” McCarthy said during a Saturday briefing in Nairobi.

Morocco, who sit just behind Kenya in the group standings, will be aiming to stamp their authority early. However, the Harambee Stars’ grit in the face of adversity, combined with home crowd advantage, could tilt the balance in their favour.

Eyes on Kasarani

A win against Morocco would strengthen Kenya’s grip at the top of Group A and bring them within touching distance of the knockout phase, a milestone that has eluded them in recent editions. With national pride, political goodwill, and corporate backing all converging, the stage is set for a charged atmosphere at Kasarani.

Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 pm EAT.

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