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Harambee Stars interim head coach Francis Kimanzi is weary of the tough opposition hosts Zanzibar present ahead of their final group stage showdown.
Harambee Stars interim coach, Francis Kimanzi, has urged his team to exercise caution as they prepare for their decisive final group stage match against Zanzibar in the ongoing Mapinduzi Cup.
Stars, who have shown promising form in the tournament with a draw and a win in their first two matches, are aiming to secure a spot in the final and conclude the tournament on a high note.
The Kenyan side began their campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso. James Kinyanjui gave the Stars an early lead, but Burkina Faso equalised in the dying moments, forcing both teams to settle for a point.
In their second match, Harambee Stars delivered a commanding performance, defeating Tanzania's Kilimanjaro Stars 2-0.
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12:33 - 08.01.2025
Harambee Stars: Growing character gives Kimanzi confidence of strong CHAN 2024 team
Harambee Stars interim coach Francis Kimanzi is satisfied with the improvements his team is showing at the Mapinduzi Cup, which gives him belief of a competitive CHAN team.
Goals from Boniface Muchiri and Ryan Ogam propelled Kenya to the top of the group standings with four points, edging out Burkina Faso on goal difference.
Zanzibar’s journey in the tournament has been equally commendable. The Heroes started with a narrow 1-0 victory over Kilimanjaro Stars but faltered in their latest outing against Burkina Faso, falling to a 1-0 defeat.
This leaves them trailing Kenya with just one point, setting the stage for a a decisive showdown.
This leaves them trailing Kenya with just one point, setting the stage for a a decisive showdown.
Speaking ahead of the crucial match, Kimanzi acknowledged the magnitude of the task ahead.
“This will be the toughest battle of all,” he said. “The games we’ve played so far were challenging, but this one is different because we’re facing the host. Both teams have four points, and the only difference is in the goals.”
Kimanzi expressed confidence in his team's growth, highlighting their improving mental strength and character.
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15:20 - 08.01.2025
Brian Musa on key aspect Harambee Stars need to gain ahead of 2024 CHAN following man-of-the-match display in Tanzania win
Musa was named man-of-the match during the side's 2-0 win over Tanzania at the ongoing Mapinduzi Cup in Pemba Islands.
“We’re developing better with every match. This will be a battle, and the environment will be different. I know that will really excite our players.”
The coach concluded by expressing optimism about the clash. “I’m really looking forward to this match because I know we’ll give it a fight.”
A victory for Harambee Stars would secure their place in the final and provide a morale boost as they prepare for the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) in February, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The highly anticipated encounter is set to be a test of grit and determination as both teams vie for glory in the Mapinduzi Cup.
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