Kenya coach Benni McCarthy has urged his team to remain calm ahead of their CHAN 2024 quarter-final encounter against Madagascar in Karasani on Friday.
The Harambee Stars have impressed in the CHAN 2024 tournament after topping their group ahead of favourites Morocco, who they handed a shock 1-0 loss to in their fixture last Sunday.
Kenya’s progression in the African Nations Championship also marked the first time the country has reached the knockout stages of a continental tournament in 38 years.
“This is a massive occasion not just for the players and coaches, but for the country as well,” said McCarthy to reporters on Thursday.
“None of these players has ever been at this stage before, so the most important thing is to stay calm and not let the weight of the moment overwhelm us.”
The East African side will be confident after finishing the group stages with an unbeaten record following three wins and a draw.
“We know we are up against a tough opponent. But if you look at the opposition we faced in our group, it wasn’t easy either. That gives us confidence,” added the South African legend.
The two teams will face each other at the Moi International Sports Centre. Kick-off is at 16h00.