Daniel Sakari: We can't miss our own party

Harambee Stars defender Daniel Sakari in past action against Uganda Cranes player Joseph Ochaya. [File, Standard]

On Sunday, all roads will lead to the historic Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani in Nairobi where Kenya will make it's debut in the eighth edition of the African Nations Championship (Chan).

Football fans, from all walks of life, are expected troop to the refurbished football cathedral to watch Harambee Stars take on two-time champions Democratic Republic of Congo in the opener.

Kenya will also subsequently tackle other continental powerhouses including Morocco, Angola and Zambia in the Group A pool of death.

Apart from staging several matches at Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums in the biannual tournament, Kenya has also been granted the green light by the Confederation of African Football to host the expected adrenaline-filled final at Kasarani on August 30.

The country hosting the thrilling final has inspired some Harambee Stars players who are hungry to propel Kenya to stardom in the championship.

One of the charges raring to make a mark in the tournament is Harambee Stars right back Daniel Sakari.

The Tusker defender says it's a do or die for them to make it to the prestigious final, where the winners will win USD3,500,000 (Sh453 million).

"Inasmuch as we are ready to welcome visitors to our house, we can't miss the party at home, we must be on that podium," an optimistic Sakari told Standard Sports.

Despite dreaming big, the former Kariobangi Sharks and Kakamega Homeboys defender knows the onus that comes with such kind of motivation and inspiration.

"I know there will be a lot of pressure to achieve this, but we are not relenting. We have to at least have a target of a podium place in the championship. I believe it's a possible aim," he underlined.

Sakari has told his teammates to focus and capitalise on the home advantage during the crunch fixtures.

"We know our passionate fans will be behind us, we only need to calm our nerves to soar high and we will make it happen.

"Kindly, let's rise to the occasion. Getting a call-up is one thing, and ensuring we deliver is another, let's all be focused on the task ahead," Sakari said.

The Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology Statistics and Pure Mathematics graduate said that the task ahead was no child play hence the need to strengthen their mental frame ahead of the tournament.

"The assignment ahead is very tough, but we are out to prove that we are ready for it. We are confident we will deliver to the over 50 million Kenyans who we are shouldering on our backs in this tournament," he said.

On the individual front, it was key for him to play in the tournament.

"It's a priceless opportunity for me. Occasions like this don't come easy. I'm ready to put my best foot forward and deliver.

"There are so many players in Kenya, so getting this golden opportunity to represent my country in the tournament is such a great moment to me and my family. It will be remembered for a very long time."

On preparations for the tournament, Sakari says head coach Benni McCarthy has taken them through paces that should help them deliver.

"Our training, spanning over three weeks, has been well and intense. We have gelled, we are ready to roar!

"We have done lots of work in camp, we have perfected several techniques that have made us well prepared for the big day on Sunday against DR Congo. "Even though we are focused on ensuring the championship is perfectly executed, we expect the tournament to be intense and competitive.

"As we make our debut in the tournament, we will give our all since we know this is also a platform and a stepping stone to higher levels. You never know who is scouting here," he said.