FIFA President Gianni Infantino is set to jet into Kenya for the finals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Saturday, August 30.
The football boss will be joined by Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe and 54 football association presidents at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani for the high-stakes clash between Morocco and Madagascar.
President William Ruto, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, and Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed, are also expected to attend.
The presence of Infantino at the game is set to add an extra level of importance to the 30-day tournament, which has provided entertainment and a sense of togetherness for Kenyans, Ugandans and Tanzanians — the tournament's three co-hosts.
What Infantino's Attendance Means
It could be a sign of trust and support in Kenya’s football leadership, particularly after FKF had been previously rocked by governance issues that had threatened Kenya’s football.
Also, since the 2024 CHAN tournament is considered a "dress rehearsal" for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will also co-host, Infantino's presence would serve as a public endorsement of Kenya's readiness to host major continental and even global tournaments.
Infantino has been the head of the global football body for close to a decade, and his arrival would be his first visit to the country since he was appointed FIFA president.
In 2023, Infantino made a surprise appearance at the opening game of the African Football League in Tanzania, a match that attracted over 60,000 spectators.
Despite not having visited the country, Infantino met FKF President Mohammed on the side lines of the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco.
CHAN Final
In the final, Morocco would be seeking a record-extending third CHAN title, while the island nation of Madagascar would be aiming to cap off its fairytale run by winning a first-ever championship.
Morocco reached the final after beating Senegal 5-3 in post-match penalties in the semi-finals. Before that, they had defeated Tanzania, one of the co-hosts, by a goal to nil in the quarters. The North African nation had sealed its spot in the quarters by securing a top-two finish in the group stage, finishing second to Kenya in Group A.
On the other hand, Madagascar finished second to Tanzania in Group B to seal their spot in the quarter-finals. It later beat Kenya 4-3 in post-match penalties in heart-breaking fashion in the quarters to seal their spot in the semis. The Barea later booked their spot in the finals by beating Sudan one-nil deep into extra time at the Benjamin Mkapa stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Before the final kick-offs, an elaborate closing ceremony is expected to be held, with spectators advised to make their way into the stadium at least three hours before the game starts.
