Kenya’s Harambee Stars have made history at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 by qualifying for the quarterfinals with a match to spare.
The CHAN 2024 tournament features 19 teams in four groups: Groups A, B, and C have five teams each, while Group D has four.
In their first-ever CHAN appearance, Harambee Stars sealed their spot in the last eight on Thursday, August 14, after two wins and a draw in their opening three Group A matches.
How Kenya Qualified Early
Kenya kicked off with a 1-0 win over DR Congo, followed by a 1-1 draw against Angola. In their third outing, they stunned Morocco 1-0 to move top of the group with 7 points.
Qualification was mathematically confirmed after Morocco beat Zambia and DR Congo edged Angola. These results left Morocco and DR Congo tied on six points each, with Zambia and Angola eliminated.
According to CAF’s group-stage tie-break rules, Kenya’s head-to-head wins over Morocco and DR Congo ensure they cannot be overtaken, regardless of final match results.
CAF Tie-Break Rules Explained
If teams tie on points, CAF first considers the head-to-head result between them.
If still level, goal difference in all group matches is checked, followed by total goals scored.
If that fails to separate teams, Fair Play records are considered, with point deductions as follows:
- 1 point: Yellow card
- 3 points: Two yellows in a match (red)
- 4 points: Direct red card
- 5 points: Yellow plus direct red card
If still tied, the Organizing Committee will conduct a drawing of lots.
The top two teams from each group advance to the quarterfinals, with fixtures as follows:
- Winner Group A vs Second Group B
- Winner Group B vs Second Group A
- Winner Group C vs Second Group D
- Winner Group D vs Second Group C
Why the Final Group A Match Matters
Harambee Stars face Zambia, already eliminated, on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at MISC Kasarani.
Current Group A Standings
| Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Kenya | 7 | +2 |
| Morocco | 6 | +3 |
| DR Congo | 6 | +3 |
| Angola | 4 | -3 |
| Zambia | 0 | -5 |
A win would guarantee Kenya top spot and allow them to host their quarterfinal at MISC Kasarani against either Mauritania or Madagascar, both trailing Group B leaders Tanzania.
However, a draw or loss could complicate matters, especially if Morocco or DR Congo win their final group match.
Coach Benny McCarthy’s squad returned to training on Wednesday after a two-day break following the win over Morocco, preparing for the decisive clash against Zambia.
