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The setbacks our boys in red are facing in Malawi are numerous including lack of home support.
The Kenya men's national football team, Harambee Stars, is currently facing a series of setbacks in their quest for qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
These challenges range from logistical issues to lack of adequate support, posing significant hurdles for the team's performance and morale.
Firstly, the team has been compelled to relocate their home matches to Malawi's Bingu Stadium due to the absence of FIFA approved stadiums within the country.
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The Bingu Stadium boasts a sizable capacity of 41,100, potentially creating an electrifying atmosphere for the games if filled to capacity.
However, this relocation has resulted in a lack of local support for Harambee Stars, notably evident in their first match against Burundi.
The absence of a multitude of Kenyan fans in the stands has dampened the team's morale, emphasizing the importance of strong home support in international competitions.
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Furthermore, the logistical challenges extend to the difficulties faced by Kenyan fans wishing to travel to Malawi to support their team.
This has led to a disparity in the number of supporters from opposing teams present at the stadium, as witnessed in the match against Burundi.
The limited presence of Kenyan fans, though vocal, underscores the need for better support structures for traveling supporters.
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Moreover, the economic implications of traveling to Malawi for the matches against Burundi and Ivory Coast have also hindered fan turnout.
Many Kenyans prioritize their jobs over attending these matches, considering the extended duration of stay required in Malawi.
The financial burden of travel and accommodation further exacerbates the challenges faced by fans, affecting the overall attendance and atmosphere at the stadium.
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In addition, the absence of sponsorship for the Kenya Football Fans Federation (KEFOFA) adds another layer of difficulty in mobilizing support for the national team.
With no external funding, KEFOFA relies solely on its resources and the goodwill of well-wishers to facilitate fan engagement and travel.
Disappointingly, promises of support from government officials, such as Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, have fallen through, leaving KEFOFA to manage the fallout from frustrated fans.
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09:31 - 08.06.2024
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Looking ahead, Harambee Stars are set to face formidable opponents in the name of Africa Cup of Nations champions, Ivory Coast, at the Bingu Stadium.
Despite the challenges, there is hope that the team will rise above and secure positive results. However, the importance of fan support cannot be overstated, urging stakeholders to address the logistical and financial barriers hindering fan participation in these crucial matches.
As the team prepares for the upcoming fixture, the rallying cry for support echoes louder than ever, emphasizing the pivotal role of fans in the journey towards World Cup qualification.
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