Kenya’s Harambee Stars have officially booked their place in the CHAN 2024 quarter-finals—without even kicking a ball in their final group fixture. The dramatic qualification was confirmed on Thursday, August 14, after results from other Group A matches mathematically guaranteed Kenya’s advancement.

Morocco’s 3–1 win over Zambia and DR Congo’s 2–0 victory against Angola reshaped the group standings, eliminating both Angola and Zambia from contention. With Kenya sitting atop Group A with seven points, following wins over DR Congo and Morocco, and a draw with Angola, the Stars could not be overtaken, even if Morocco or DR Congo matched their tally.

Under CHAN’s head-to-head rule, which prioritizes direct encounters over goal difference, Kenya held the advantage. Having already defeated both Morocco and DR Congo, the Stars were assured of progressing regardless of the outcome in their final match against Zambia.

Coach Benni McCarthy hailed the team’s tactical discipline and resilience throughout the group stage, especially in their hard-fought 1–0 win over Morocco. The squad is expected to use the Zambia match to rotate players and refine strategies ahead of the knockout rounds.

President William Ruto congratulated the team and announced a KSh 1 million bonus for reaching the quarter-finals, calling their performance “a symbol of national pride and unity.”

Angola and Zambia have been eliminated. Angola managed four points from four matches but fell short after a 2–0 loss to DR Congo. Zambia, meanwhile, lost all three of their group games and sit bottom of the table with zero points.