The Harambee Stars defender has explained how the side have prepared for the test of Madagascar at Kasarani Stadium on Friday.

Harambee Stars defender Daniel Sakari has lifted the lid on the team’s preparations ahead of their highly anticipated 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarter-final clash against Madagascar at Kasarani Stadium on Friday night.

Kenya defied expectations to finish top of Group A—widely regarded as the toughest pool of the tournament—and now stand just 270 minutes away from continental glory.

“It is amazing being the first side in history to make it this far, and we are super grateful. As a player, it is something to be proud of,” Sakari said.

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The 26-year-old started Kenya’s opening two games at right back against DR Congo and Angola but has since played a more flexible role from the bench, with Lewis Bandi impressing as a starter against Morocco and Zambia.

That competition for places, Sakari believes, has been crucial to the team’s progress. “It is healthy because it shows you cannot afford to slip up. 

“It also shows we have a fantastic team. On the pitch, you cannot feel the pressure, but on the bench, you overthink. But we knew we were always going to win, so it kept us calm.”

Sakari’s adaptability has also made him a key asset for coach Benni McCarthy. Against DR Congo, he slotted in as a right wing back for the second half, repeated the role against Angola after Kenya went down to 10 men, and later came on as a midfielder against Morocco and as a winger versus Zambia.

“It is all about adapting to different situations as long as you know what is required in every situation,” he explained.

The defender also reserved praise for the fans, whose support has lifted the squad throughout the campaign.

“The fans have played a big role en route to the quarter-finals. We appreciate that as players, but we are not focused on social media hype, only on the next game.”

Turning his attention to Friday’s opponents, Sakari confirmed that Kenya’s technical bench has worked tirelessly to prepare the team for Madagascar’s threat. “Before every game, you have to know how your opponents play—how they attack, defend, and their weaknesses. 

“That we have done, and now we are working on our strengths which we could use to exploit their weaknesses. We have done video analysis on how they play and know about their goalkeeper, so we are going to do our best.”

Madagascar, who have impressed in the tournament, will lean heavily on in-form goalkeeper Michel Ramandimbisoa, who has stood out with crucial saves in the group stage.

With history already made, Sakari and his teammates will be aiming to push further when they walk out onto the Kasarani turf under the Friday night lights.