Kalonzo urges Harambee Stars to seal Group A with Morocco win
By Kenneth Mwenda, August 10, 2025Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has rallied behind Harambee Stars ahead of their decisive African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A clash against Morocco at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
“I encourage you to secure victory, topping Group A before last minute VAR drama!” Kalonzo posted on X, on Sunday, August 10, 2025, urging the team to get the job done without leaving qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
The highly anticipated fixture, which kicked off at 3:00 pm, could see Kenya book a historic quarter-final spot in their debut CHAN campaign with just a draw. However, head coach Benni McCarthy has made it clear his side is gunning for all three points, despite facing one of the tournament’s strongest teams.
McCarthy has made a bold statement in his lineup, dropping several established names from the side that drew 1-1 with Angola on Thursday night. Among those benched are captain Omar Aboud, right-back Daniel Sakari, defender Alphonce Omija, winger Austin Odhiambo, and also miss midfielder Marvin Nabwire who was red carded on Thursday.
Fresh faces for Morocco
In their place, the South African tactician has brought in fresh legs and tactical adjustments. Siraj Mohammed starts at right-back, while Mike Kibwage returns to partner Sylvester Owino in central defence, taking over the captain’s armband. Lewis Bandi and Chrispine Erambo bolster midfield alongside Stanley Manzur, with Ben Stanley given the playmaker role. Ryan Ogam replaces Austin Odhiambo in attack, joining Edward Omondi and Boniface Muchiri up front.
Starting XI: Omondi (GK), Siraj, Kibwage (C), S. Owino, Bandi, S. Manzur, Erambo, Stanley, Ogam, Omondi, Boniface.
Substitutes: Faruk, Abud, Omija, Michira, Onyango, Odongo, Austine, Oluoch, Sakwa, Okumu, Sakari, Wekesa.
Kenya head into the game with four points from two matches, following a 1-0 win over DR Congo and the hard-fought draw with Angola. Morocco arrive fresh from a week’s rest and a convincing 2-0 win against Angola, making them a formidable opponent.
Over 40,000 fans have packed Kasarani to back the Stars, hoping to witness not just progression to the knockout stages, but a statement victory against North African giants. A win guarantees top spot in Group A; a draw will still send Kenya through – but McCarthy and his players are determined to make their own history on home soil.