CAF approves 80 per cent Kasarani Stadium capacity for Harambee Stars quarterfinal

Harambee Stars Coach Benni McCarthy at a past press conference. [CAF]

Kenyans can breathe a sigh of relief after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) cleared 80 per cent stadium capacity for Kenya's 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinal clash against Madagascar, set for Friday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

CAF's decision comes after a successful appeal by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC).

The duo had challenged CAF's earlier restriction that capped attendance at 60 per cent following security concerns during the group stage.

Earlier on, CAF had limited Kenya's final group match against Zambia to 27,000 fans, citing lapses in crowd control and gate management.

With the new approval, up to 38,400 supporters will now be allowed into Kasarani to cheer on the national team, Harambee Stars.

In their appeal, FKF and LOC detailed corrective measures, including tighter security protocols, better crowd flow systems, and improved gate operations.

Addressing the press in Nairobi, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya expressed confidence in the preparations and urged Kenyans to rally behind the team in unity.

"I urge Kenyans to continue on this positive trajectory of unity and purpose, without invoking negative politics, as we stand together in support of our team," he said.