Fresh concerns have emerged surrounding the Kenyan national football team, Harambee Stars, after reports indicated that players were temporarily stranded upon arrival in Pretoria, South Africa, ahead of an international friendly series.
The team is currently in South Africa to participate in two friendly matches against Lesotho as part of preparations for future assignments, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification campaign.
Players Allegedly Reject Initial Accommodation
According to reports and photos shared by sports journalist Kevin Teya, Harambee Stars players landed safely in Pretoria before being transported to an accommodation facility arranged for the squad.
However, sources claim some members of the team were dissatisfied with the facility, allegedly describing it as a basic lodging that did not meet the standards expected for a national team.
The players reportedly declined to check in and requested that alternative accommodation be secured.
FKF Officials Seek Alternative Hotel
Following the concerns raised by the squad, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) officials are said to have moved quickly to identify a different hotel for the team.
Sources indicate that arrangements were made for the players to relocate to another accommodation facility in Pretoria.
However, the situation reportedly took another turn after issues allegedly emerged regarding payment for the new accommodation.
Players Left Waiting for Hours
According to reports from Pretoria, a dispute over accommodation payments reportedly arose between FKF representatives and the hotel’s management.
Sources claim federation officials were unable to immediately settle the required payment, resulting in delays that left players waiting in the hotel lobby for several hours.
The team was reportedly stranded at the facility for approximately three hours as efforts were made to resolve the matter.
Photos circulating online appeared to show members of the squad gathered inside a hotel lobby while awaiting a solution.
No Official Statement Yet
By the time of publication, neither the Football Kenya Federation nor the Harambee Stars technical bench had publicly commented on the reports.
The federation has also not issued an official statement confirming or denying the alleged accommodation challenges.
Focus Remains on Lesotho Friendlies
Despite the reported setback, Harambee Stars are expected to continue preparations for their upcoming friendly matches against Lesotho.
The fixtures are considered important as head coach and technical staff assess players and fine-tune the squad ahead of future international competitions, including the 2027 AFCON qualification campaign.
Kenyan football fans will be hoping the reported logistical challenges are resolved quickly to allow the team to focus fully on its preparations and upcoming matches.
