Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, has officially pulled out of the CECAFA Four Nations Tournament in Tanzania, just hours before their scheduled opening match against the hosts. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) announced the decision on Monday, attributing it to recommendations from the team’s technical bench.
In a statement, FKF said the decision was made “after a thorough assessment of the prevailing conditions” by the technical team, led by head coach Benni McCarthy. The conditions, according to FKF, were found to be unsuitable for the team’s participation and effective preparation.
“This decision has been made following recommendations and advice from the team’s technical bench, led by Head Coach Benni McCarthy, after a thorough assessment of the prevailing conditions, which were deemed unsuitable for the team’s participation and overall preparation,” FKF stated.
The surprise withdrawal comes as Kenya, along with fellow East African nations Tanzania and Uganda, intensifies preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which the three countries will jointly host beginning Saturday. The CECAFA tournament was widely viewed as a key warm-up event for CHAN.
Despite the abrupt nature of the decision, FKF emphasized that the team’s focus will now fully shift to preparing for CHAN 2024.
“The team will return to Kenya and resume preparations for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, with full focus now shifting to ensuring optimal readiness for the assignment ahead,” the federation added.
While specific details regarding the “unsuitable conditions” were not disclosed, the federation assured fans of its commitment to providing the national team with the best environment to compete and represent Kenya with pride.
“The FKF remains committed to ensuring the Harambee Stars are fully supported as they aim to deliver strong performances on the continental stage,” the statement concluded.
The CECAFA Four Nations Tournament had generated excitement in the region, and Kenya’s withdrawal will likely affect the competitive balance of the event. Football enthusiasts and analysts are now turning their attention to how the Stars will regroup ahead of CHAN, which offers a major opportunity for local-based talent to shine on the African stage.
Written By Rodney Mbua
