Harambee Stars interim coach Francis Kimanzi believes the ongoing Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar is instrumental in helping the team build a competitive CHAN squad.With the tournament set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda just three weeks away, Kimanzi views this as a crucial opportunity for player assessment and team development.Kenya is one of four nations participating in the Mapinduzi Cup and has already played two matches.The team drew 1-1 with Burkina Faso in their opening game on Saturday before securing a 2-0 victory over Tanzania’s mainland side on Tuesday. Their next challenge will be against Zanzibar on Friday.##NAJAVA_MECA_8618390##The tournament serves as a preparatory platform for Kenya, Tanzania, and Burkina Faso ahead of the CHAN competition.Kimanzi, who is temporarily overseeing the team, has rotated players in both the starting lineup and substitute positions to give a broad spectrum of local-based talent the opportunity to prove themselves.From what has been observed so far, the coach is optimistic about the potential of the players in the squad. In an interview with Telecomasia.net, Kimanzi emphasized that this stage is all about evaluating players and laying the foundation for a highly competitive team.”We are still in the very early stages of testing the players, and we want to build a team that is highly competitive,” he said.Despite the early stages of the team’s development, Kimanzi has seen encouraging signs. He remains focused on refining the squad’s mental strength and ensuring that the team grows together as they prepare for the challenges ahead at CHAN.”We are seeing players display strong character, and these games in the Mapinduzi Cup are helping us build that further. We aim to see better mental resilience, and we are committed to improving the team with every game,” he added.Star striker seeks exit from AFC LeopardsHarambee Stars team in Zanzibar Goalkeepers: Byrne Odhiambo, Faruk Shikalo, Sepstanious Wekesa.Defenders: Sylvester Owino, Hanif Wesonga, Alphonce Omija, Brian Okoth, Abud Omar, Siraj Mohammed, Ronney Onyango, Daniel Sakari.Midfielders: Michael Mutinda, Chrispine Erambo, Brian Musa, Kelly Madada, Austine Odhiambo, Kenneth Muguna, Ben Stanley Omondi, Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, Darius Msagah, James Kinyanjui.Forwards: Moses Shumah, Ryan Ogam.Wanyama shares two changes FKF’s new office need to do in FKF Premier League
