The Harambee Stars are currently participating in the Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar, a key tournament that serves as preparation for the 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN), which Kenya is co-hosting with Uganda and Tanzania. The tournament, designed to give local-league players international exposure, is offering valuable insights into the team’s progress. Here are five things we’ve learned about the Harambee Stars so far in the ongoing competition:
- Kimanzi is seeking a settled team
Francis Kimanzi, who returned to coach the team on an interim basis, is focused on building a solid squad for CHAN 2024. The team has only played two friendly matches, against Burkina Faso and Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro Stars, with Kimanzi making several changes to evaluate his players. Although some key players, such as Ronney Onyango, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, and Austine Odhiambo, were unavailable for the opening match against Burkina Faso due to club commitments, it is clear that these players will be pivotal to his plans. Omija and Owino are expected to form a strong center-back partnership, while Odhiambo will likely continue as the team’s creative force in midfield. Ryan Ogam is emerging as the preferred striker, and the full-back positions are solidified by Aboud Omar and Daniel Sakari. On the wings, Boniface Muchiri and James Kinyanjui offer both flair and the ability to break down defensive setups. - New heroes are emerging
Several players have seized the opportunity to make their mark and secure their place in the final squad for CHAN 2024. Farouk Shikalo has impressed as a goalkeeper, stepping in during the match against Tanzania when Byrne Omondi was substituted at halftime. James Kinyanjui and Boniface Muchiri have also caught the eye with their performances, and Brian Musa has demonstrated his ability to replicate his strong club form at the international level. Musa was named man of the match against Tanzania for his excellent passing and ability to break lines from deep positions. Ryan Ogam has adapted quickly to international football, showcasing his poaching instincts up front. - Mental strength is improving
Kimanzi has noted that his team is steadily building mental resilience, which will be crucial for their success in the 2024 CHAN tournament. After a 1-1 draw with Burkina Faso in their opening match, the team secured a 2-0 victory over Kilimanjaro Stars. The win highlighted improvements in both defense and attack. Kimanzi is encouraged by the players’ growing confidence and believes that the tournament is providing an excellent platform for them to develop stronger mental character. This mental toughness will be important as the team progresses through the competition and prepares for the challenges of the CHAN. - Kimanzi’s tactical decisions are bold
Kimanzi has shown a willingness to make bold tactical decisions, including making early substitutions to address the team’s performance. For example, he substituted goalkeeper Byrne Omondi at halftime during the 2-0 win against Kilimanjaro Stars, signaling his desire for more from the shot-stopper. Additionally, Kimanzi brought on Kelly Madada against Burkina Faso after Kenneth Muguna suffered an injury, only to later substitute him off when the West African side started to gain control. These decisions highlight Kimanzi’s tactical flexibility and his commitment to making the necessary changes to improve the team’s performance. - Midfield stability is a work in progress
While Brian Musa has impressed in midfield, there is still a need for greater stability in the center of the park. Kimanzi has experimented with different combinations of defensive midfielders, including Chrispine Erambo and Michael Mutinda. Erambo started in the second game, while Mutinda played in the first. With the final games of the Mapinduzi Cup ahead, it remains to be seen who will establish themselves as the ideal partner for Musa and Odhiambo in midfield. The balance and stability of the midfield will be crucial for the team’s success in the upcoming CHAN tournament.
As the Mapinduzi Cup continues, these insights into the Harambee Stars’ preparations suggest that Kimanzi is steadily shaping a team that is mentally stronger, tactically flexible, and ready for the challenges of the 2024 CHAN.
