Kenya and Madagascar have confirmed their line-ups for Friday’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarter-final at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.
The hosts, buoyed by strong home support, will look to seize control early through a blend of defensive resilience and attacking flair.
Goalkeeper Omondi anchors the backline, supported by defenders Abud, Kibwage, Omija and Onyango.
In midfield and attack, Boniface, Bandi, Ogam, Stanley, Manzur and Nabwire are tasked with driving the Harambee Stars forward as they chase a historic semi-final spot in their first-ever CHAN quarter-final appearance.
Madagascar, who finished third in the 2023 edition, counter with a balanced starting XI designed to disrupt Kenya’s rhythm.
Toldo starts in goal behind a defensive line of Nicolas, Toky, Tony and Lalaina.
The midfield features Fenohasina, Dax and Gregass, with Luc, Bono and Niaina offering attacking options in the final third.
The Barea, seasoned by their recent tournament success, will rely on their structure and ability to absorb pressure before striking on the counter.
With contrasting narratives—Kenya eager to capitalise on their breakthrough tournament run and Madagascar determined to build on past achievements—the match promises an intense battle of styles.
The hosts will look to set the tempo and use the energy of the crowd, while the visitors aim to frustrate and pounce on opportunities.
Every challenge, interception and chance is expected to carry weight in what could be a tightly contested quarter-final.
Both sides have proven their resilience in the group stage, and with a semi-final place on the line, the stakes are high.
Confirmed line-ups:
- Kenya: Omondi, Abud, Kibwage, Omija, Onyango, Boniface, Bandi, Ogam, Stanley, Manzur, Nabwire
- Madagascar: Toldo, Nicolas, Toky, Tony, Lalaina, Fenohasina, Dax, Gregass, Luc, Bono, Niaina
The atmosphere inside Kasarani is set to be electric, with fans expecting a spectacle befitting the knockout stage of Africa’s premier home-based players’ tournament.
For Kenya, this is a chance to turn hope into history; for Madagascar, it is an opportunity to confirm their growing stature on the continental stage.
Only one will advance, and the margins could be razor-thin.
