Kenya men’s hockey team hit camp ahead of 2025 Cup of Nations

The tournament, which will be hosted alongside the women’s edition, will mark the 12th edition of the continental showpiece organized by the African Hockey Federation.

While speaking to Citizen Digital Men’s Head Coach Michael Malungu has emphasized the importance of starting early as the team targets qualification for the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup.

“We have started early preparations to ensure we turn up for the Championship. Our main objective in this tournament is to earn a ticket to the senior World Cup,” noted Malungu.

The team will be aiming to build on their recent performances, having finished fourth in the 2022 Hockey Africa Cup of Nations.

According to Malungu, the team is keen to improve especially in their attacking play, a department that has posed challenges in past competitions.

“In the past, we have had challenges as a team, more so in attack. This time round we are focusing more on that area. We believe if we can get our act right in attack then we will be much more competitive.”

The squad in camp is expected to undergo a phased trimming process, where 35 players will be retained by the end of June. The number will further be reduced to 25 in July, before the final 18-man squad is named in August.

On selection criteria, Malungu stressed the need for both experience and continuity, revealing that the technical bench is considering players who have previously represented the country across different levels, while also giving opportunities to upcoming talents from the youth system.

“In terms of selection, we are looking at various aspects including continuity in the team. Quite a number of the players have represented the country at different levels.”

“We also have promising talents from the youth system and as a national team we are looking to give them an opportunity at the senior level.”

While the short-term focus is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations, Malungu also hinted at a longer-term vision of  preparing the team adequately for a potential appearance at the 2028 Olympic Games.