CAF flags Kenya, imposes stadium restriction for Harambee Stars vs Zambia game

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Monday evening moved to address escalating security breaches witnessed during Harambee Stars’ African Nations Championship (CHAN) matches, following fresh violations of match-day protocols on Sunday.

During Sunday’s game at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, fans overran police barricades, forcefully gaining entry into the stadium—some without tickets. The situation was no better after the final whistle.

This was the second such incident, the first having occurred during Harambee Stars’ 2–1 victory over DR Congo in the home team’s opening fixture.

On Monday in Nairobi, after lengthy deliberations and behind-the-scenes interventions, CAF announced in a statement that Kasarani Stadium will now only admit two-thirds of its capacity—equivalent to 60 percent.

This comes as a major blow to Harambee Stars, who have been riding on raucous home support throughout the tournament.

“Following repeated and serious security lapses during Kenya’s home matches at Kasarani Stadium, CAF has undertaken the decision to impose immediate measures for upcoming fixtures in Kasarani involving the host nation.

As a result: capacity restriction—maximum 60% of stadium capacity (27,000 tickets). Ticketing is now strictly limited to electronic ticket holders; thermal tickets are prohibited.”

CAF, also  detailed numerous breaches, including the overrunning of stadium gates by ticketless fans and holders of physical tickets distributed by the government, breaches of the perimeter fence, and loss of control at exit points.

There were also reports of initial crowd control failure at the Ngomongo roundabout, leading to uncontrolled access through multiple gates. Security forces were accused of using tear gas and flash grenades that caused panic, while reports emerged of live ammunition being fired near spectators and staff.

CAF warned that it expects full and immediate compliance with these directives. Failure to do so, it added, may result in more serious sanctions, including the consideration of alternative venues for future Harambee Stars matches.

The directive comes as ticket sales for Kenya’s final group match against Zambia, scheduled for August 17, 2025, at 8 PM EAT, were abruptly frozen on the ticketing website, fuelling speculation that logistical changes are being made to comply with CAF’s requirements.

CAF Tournament and Events Director Samson Adamu emphasized that these measures are critical for protecting fans, preserving the integrity of the tournament, and maintaining confidence in Kenya’s ability to host high-profile football events.

Additional reporting by Brian Ouma