Benni McCarthy demands focused start from Kenya in CHAN clash against Morocco

The Harambee stars lead Group A by a single point, with two matches still to play and a victory against Morocco would almost guarantee qualification for the next round.

However, a loss against the Moroccans would see Kenya potentially move out of the top two spots ahead of their final clash against Zambia next Sunday.

South African coach Benni McCarthy has urged his side to focus from the onset of their clash on Sunday.

"In major competitions, players might need time to adjust to the environment," said the South African born mentor.

"It is a first major tournament for most of our players. That tension leads to slow starts, which we can't afford to make against the likes of Morocco, one of the strongest teams in the group and competition.

"If we start slowly, they will punish us. I will be drumming it into the players that we can't give ourselves a mountain to climb," added the former Blackburn Rovers striker.

Kenya will face Morocco at the Moi International Sports Centre this Sunday.