CHAN 2024: Blow for Harambee Stars as influential forward is ruled out of Angola clash
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Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 06.08.25. | 16:08
Despite admitting being forced to make changes following Juma's injury, McCarthy has attacking options at his disposal
Harambee Stars face a potential blow ahead of their second African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 Group A clash against Angola.
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This is after it emerged that striker Masoud Juma is a major doubt for the tie set for Kasarani Stadium on Thursday from 7pm.
Head coach Benni McCarthy confirmed that the Migori Youth FC forward picked up a knock during Kenya’s 1-0 win over DR Congo last weekend, and may not be fit in time for the next assignment.
“Unfortunately, I am having to make changes because Masoud picked up an injury,” said McCarthy.
“We are still hopeful it is a minor issue and does not develop into something more serious.”
Harambee Stars Head Coach Benny McCarthy
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"Masud Juma picked a knock against DRC and may not be available for tomorrow's match against Angola"#CHAN2024 pic.twitter.com/eC13im0dbv
Juma played a role in Stars' opening match, operating as a target man whose clever movement and hold-up play created space for other attackers Ryan Ogam, David Sakwa, and Austin Odhiambo to break into the final third.
“His hold-up play was excellent, and it allowed the likes of Sakwa, Ogam, and Austin to get into dangerous areas, " praised Benni.
Should Juma fail to pass the fitness test on time, McCarthy has a few attacking options at his disposal.
Posta Rangers striker Felix Mboya Oluoch, a late addition to the squad, is one possibility, while Tusker’s Ryan Ogam, who scored 15 goals in the 2024/25 FKF Premier League season, is also in contention for the central role.
Another alternative is Shabana’s promising youngster, Austin ‘Lastborn’ Odongo.
Kenya will be aiming for a second successive victory on Thursday to boost their chances of qualifying for the knockout stages of the competition, but McCarthy is keeping expectations in check.
“We have tried to keep the players grounded. Yes, it was a good start, but it is only one match. Angola is a strong side with a competitive league. They were unlucky to lose to Morocco.”
The South African tactician expects a different style of play from Angola compared to the defensive approach Kenya encountered against the Congolese.
“Angola pressed high from the start. That brings a different challenge,” McCarthy said. “But we want to stay calm and composed. We started the first match nervously, and we want to avoid that."
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