Summary
- Kenya’s Group A draw for CHAN 2024 is no walk in the park — featuring four-time AFCON champions DR Congo, rising giants Angola, World Cup regulars Morocco, and tournament-hardened Zambia.
- All matches will be played at Kasarani, giving Harambee Stars home support but little room for error.
- We break down each opponent’s pedigree, style of play, and the key players Kenya must watch out for.
Nairobi, Kenya- When the CHAN 2024 group stage draw dropped, Kenyan fans let out a collective gulp. Hosting the tournament was already pressure enough — but sharing Group A with DR Congo, Morocco, Zambia, and Angola? That’s the kind of lineup that keeps even seasoned coaches awake at night.
While the home crowd at Kasarani will be roaring, Harambee Stars will need more than just fanfare to survive this pool of pedigree. This isn’t just a group — it’s a minefield of African football royalty.
So who exactly are we up against? And what does Benni McCarthy need to know before kick-off?
Let’s break it down — team by team.
DR Congo – The CHAN Behemoth
Let’s just call it like it is: DR Congo is the team to beat. They’ve won CHAN twice (2009, 2016), have serious experience, and always come armed with lethal attackers and battle-tested defenders.
Expect high-press intensity, a physical midfield, and a forward line that punishes even half-hearted defending. Benni’s backline — likely led by Sylvester Owino and David Ochieng — will need to be on red alert from the first whistle.
✅ Player to watch: Makabi Lilepo – pace, precision, and a nightmare on the wings.
Morocco – Unpredictable, But Deadly
Yes, Morocco fields mostly local-based players in CHAN. But don’t be fooled. Their domestic league is among the best in Africa, and their 2018 and 2020 CHAN titles speak volumes.
What makes them dangerous? Versatility. They can sit back and absorb pressure or explode into attack with tiki-taka flair. McCarthy must prepare for a chess match, not a brawl.
✅ Player to watch: Reda Slim or his successor — tricky feet, quick mind.
Zambia – Technically Gifted and Tournament-Savvy
Never sleep on Zambia. They’re CHAN regulars, and their flair is backed by tournament grit. Their U-23s and local league sides have produced big names.
They’re the kind of team that thrives when underestimated — and can turn one mistake into a match-winner.
✅ Player to watch: Albert Kangwanda – midfield general, engine of the squad.
Angola – Africa’s Quiet Climber
Angola may not come with the same headlines, but they’ve steadily grown into a well-organized, well-drilled outfit. Think compact defending, smart counter-attacks, and efficient finishing.
Their CHAN 2018 semi-final run proved they belong among the continent’s best.
✅ Player to watch: Depú – fast, clinical, and doesn’t need a second chance.
The Harambee Stars Verdict
If there’s such a thing as a “Group of Death,” this is it. But don’t count out Kenya just yet. Home advantage, crowd energy, and McCarthy’s tactical nous could be enough to unsettle one or two of these giants.
Qualifying won’t be easy. But if Kenya can get something from the opening game — likely against DR Congo or Angola — then a dream CHAN run remains on the table.