Kenya qualified for the knockout stages by topping Group A with 10 points, while Madagascar finished second in Group B with seven points. This will be the first meeting between the two teams at the CHAN tournament.

Kenya has had a successful campaign so far, winning three group matches and drawing one. They started with a 1-0 win against DR Congo, followed by a 1-1 draw against Angola, a 1-0 win against Morocco with 10 men, and a 1-0 victory against Zambia.

The team's defensive discipline has been a key factor in their success, conceding only once in four matches. McCarthy's men will be looking to maintain their momentum against a tough opponent.

Speaking ahead of the match, McCarthy emphasized the importance of staying humble and focused. "We must keep our feet on the ground and stay humble. We will be ready for tomorrow, and we will work on a few things to ensure we are well-prepared," he said.

McCarthy also acknowledged the support of the fans, saying, "They have been part of the reason we are in this situation. We have had the best support, which we could have hoped for, so tomorrow is our day to deliver and give them even more joy."

This will be Kenya's third meeting with a COSAFA member nation at CHAN, after drawing with Angola and beating Zambia in the group stage. For Madagascar, this will be their second meeting with a host nation, having lost to Tanzania earlier in the group stages.

McCarthy and Kenya will be aiming to become the first debutants since Madagascar in 2022 to reach the semi-finals.

The match will take place on Friday at Kasarani Stadium, and fans can follow the action on Flashscore.