This archive report was first published on 5 December 2019.
Published on December 5, 2019, Harambee Stars coach Francis Kimanzi is optimistic about his team's chances of winning the Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup title.
Kenya, who won the title in 2017 by defeating Zanzibar in a post-match penalty shootout, will begin their campaign against Tanzania on Sunday.
Coach Kimanzi expressed his confidence in his squad, saying, "Everyone who was called up to the camp has reported and is training hard for the tournament. We are looking forward to retaining the trophy we won in 2017."
Midfielder Whyvonne Isuza, who is part of the second-string side, echoed Kimanzi's sentiments, stating, "We are preparing well for the championship and we will do our best to defend the trophy."
The team has been training at Utalii grounds since Monday and will depart for Kampala on Friday ahead of their first game on Sunday.
Kenya is in Group C alongside Djibouti, Tanzania, and Zanzibar.
Anthony Wambani, a former Bandari and Kibera Black Stars midfielder who now plays for Swedish third-tier side Vasalunds IF, is looking forward to giving his best for the national team.
"Every player wishes to play for his country and I am very happy to get this chance. I know we are the defending champions and that raises the stakes. I love the camaraderie in camp and I promise to do my best to help the team," he said.
However, the tournament has faced some challenges, with Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan withdrawing due to logistical issues. Libya, who had expressed interest in participating as a guest team, will also not be part of the tournament.
The Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup will be held at the StarTimes Stadium in Lugogo, Kampala, and will feature nine nations. The tournament will kick off on Saturday and conclude on December 19, with all matches being broadcast by Azam TV.
