File image of Harambee Stars players in a past training session

Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, has withdrawn from the ongoing CECAFA Four Nations Tournament in Tanzania, citing conditions deemed unsuitable for the team’s objectives.

In a statement released on Monday, July 21, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) announced that the decision followed extensive consultations within the technical team, led by head coach Benni McCarthy.

“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 said.

As a result, the team will return to Nairobi and shift focus to preparing for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), a major tournament for national teams composed exclusively of home-based players.

“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,” FKF added.

Harambee Stars had arrived in Tanzania on Saturday, July 19, landing at Arusha Airport before proceeding to Karatu, a town approximately 150 kilometers away, where the tournament was being held. The early arrival was part of McCarthy’s strategy to help players acclimatize and refine tactical setups ahead of kickoff.

The squad selected for the tournament featured 25 home-based players, including three goalkeepers, a balanced mix of defenders and midfielders, and a forward line blending youth and experience. The tournament had been seen as a critical preparatory opportunity ahead of CHAN.

Speaking earlier, McCarthy had said: “It is a good tournament to gauge our preparedness for CHAN. We are going to face formidable opponents and that will clearly show us what is working and what needs to be fixed.”

The withdrawal has sparked debate among fans and commentators, with many questioning the specific challenges that forced the team to pull out just days after arriving.