NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya’s Harambee Stars are in a commanding position at the top of Group A with seven points from three matches as they prepare to face Zambia this Sunday at Kasarani Stadium.
A victory in their final group match would not only secure their position at the summit with 10 points but also significantly enhance their chances of a deep run in the tournament.
Finishing as group winners would grant the Harambee Stars the advantage of a home quarterfinal match. They would host the runners-up of Group B, which includes Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Madagascar, and hosts Tanzania, at Kasarani Stadium on Friday, August 22, 2025.
Conversely, should Kenya drop points against Zambia and slip to second place—particularly if Morocco or DR Congo win their final matches—the team would be forced to travel to Tanzania to face the Group B winners in the quarterfinals.
The stakes for Sunday’s clash are exceptionally high. In addition to securing home advantage, the team is playing for a KSh 2.5 million bonus.
The incentives become even more enticing should they advance past the quarterfinal stage, with each player promised a house and KSh 1 million.
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A victory in the last eight would see Kenya travel to Kampala, Uganda, for a semifinal clash on August 26, 2025.
Despite their comfortable position, the Harambee Stars must avoid any complacency. A defeat against Zambia, combined with a significant victory by Angola over DR Congo, could see Kenya shockingly eliminated from the tournament on goal difference.
With their destiny in their own hands, a strong performance is crucial to ensure their progression and maintain control of their path in the competition.
The path to the tournament’s final, which is also set to be held at Kasarani Stadium, runs through a successful outing against Zambia on Sunday.
