Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) CEO Ezekiel Mutua has urged Harambee Stars not to underrate Group B runners-up Madagascar in their quarter-final clash in Nairobi.

In a statement on Sunday, August 17, 2025, Mutua urged Kenya to play against Madagascar with the same intensity as it did in other group stage fixtures.

“Harambee Stars have made life quite complicated for Tanzania. Morocco will play like wounded buffaloes. On the flip side, we must not underate Madagascar despite the home advantage. The CHAN tournament has become more enjoyable as it progresses. We may end up playing Morocco in the finals,” Mutua said.

Tanzania v Morocco

With the win against Zambia on Sunday at the Kasarani Stadium, Kenya set up its neighbour, Tanzania, against Northern Africa’s formidable Morocco team, which will play against them in Tanzania.

This is after Morocco came second in Group A, after beating the DRC 3-1. Tanzania led Group B after winning 3 of their games and drawing once to finish with 10 points, just like Kenya.

Madagascar also won against Burkina Faso and the Central African Republic and drew with Mauritania. Their only loss came against group B leaders Tanzania, whose only draw was with the match against CAR on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

Kenya v Madagascar

Kenya will now face Madagascar on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 5:00 pm, as Morocco clashes with Tanzania the same day at 8:00 pm.

Buoyed by loyal fans and the promise of millions and houses by President William Ruto, Harambee Stars’ determination is set to be seen during the knockout stage match against Madagascar.

Already, President William Ruto has pledged to award Harambee Stars players a cash bonus of Ksh2.5 million each for beating Zambia. Their overall bonus for reaching the quarter-finals is Ksh60 million, while that for advancing to the semis is Ksh70 million.

Ruto has also promised a life-changing Ksh600 million should Kenya lift the CHAN 2024 trophy.

“I have revised the Ksh200 M reward for reaching the finals that Salim Mvurya had placed with you. If you reach the final, you will have a cash prize of Ksh600 M. It cannot get better than this. Now it is upon everyone to play their part,” the head of state told the team on August 2, 2025.