CHAN: Lewis Bandi confident Harambee Stars will keep momentum against Zambia
By Luke Oluoch, August 17, 2025Harambee Stars defender Lewi Bandi has expressed optimism that the team will maintain its winning momentum ahead of their crucial Group A finale clash against Zambia in the ongoing African Nations Championship.
Kenya will face the Chipolopolo team on Sunday, August 17, 2025, with Bandi confident that the team can replicate the fine start to the tournament as they seek to wrap up their group proceedings on a high against the Avram Grant-coached team.
“The momentum is with us. We have earned seven points from the opening matches, which is not an easy feat to achieve. We only dropped two points, and the mood in the dressing room remains high.
“Heading to the final group game, I believe we have the momentum on our side, and with fans on our side, we hope to give our best too in the clash,” the versatile player who recently signed with Gor Mahia stated.
His sentiments mirror those made by his teammate Austin Odhiambo, who has stressed the importance of Kenya approaching the clash with a target of winning the clash.
Speaking on Saturday, August 16, 2025, the attacking midfielder stated that victory will come in handy in boosting their confidence levels as the continental games enter the crucial knockout stages.
“We are ready for the game. We know the importance of the match, as we want to proceed to the next stage by finishing top of our group as the winners. So we are doing all to ensure we win the game,” he stated.
Support from fans
Austine also underscored the crucial role played by Kenyan supporters, who have filled the stadium to capacity every time the team plays, bringing a rousing atmosphere to the continental clashes. He opined that such an environment has played an invaluable role in spurring the team.
“As a player, I have known the importance of fans. They truly mean a lot to football, and they are an integral part of the game.
“The fans, the government through the president, and all the people who have come through to make this happen—I feel for the first time the whole country has come together, making it easier for us to get the results on the pitch,” he added.
He further observed that playing the next ties in front of the charged crowd will be key to Kenya’s chances of reaching the latter stages of the continental competitions.
‘Firstly, it’s important, as we will play our games at home, which is very key. It will not only give us the home advantage but also the motivation to face the next challenge. Playing at home and in front of our fans,” he added.