Kenyans hail Harambee Stars for unity, resilience despite loss to Madagascar
Former Kenyan midfielder Victor Wanyama lauded the players and coach Benni McCarthy, noting that their efforts had rekindled joy in the national game.
Kenyans have expressed overwhelming support for the Harambee Stars despite their 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to Madagascar in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarter-finals at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on August 22.
The national team had held Madagascar to a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes, only to fall in the tense penalty shootout, ending their spirited campaign.
More To Read
- Coach Rakotondrabe reveals how Madagascar outfoxed Harambee Stars
- Kenya, Tanzania trade barbs online following CHAN 2024 exit
- Ruto, Raila and leaders unite in praise for Harambee Stars despite 'heartbreaking' loss
- Kenya vs Madagascar: End of road for Harambee Stars after a 4-3 loss during penalties
- CAF rolls out mobile phone translation system for journalists covering CHAN 2024
- CECAFA names 12 teams for 2025 Kagame Cup in Tanzania
Alphonce Omija had given Kenya the lead in the 48th minute before Madagascar equalised from the spot 21 minutes from time. A controversial disallowed goal from Ryan Ogam and Madagascar’s disciplined defensive display pushed the game to extra time and penalties.
Despite the defeat, fans took to social media praising the team’s spirited performance. Former Kenyan midfielder Victor Wanyama lauded the players and coach Benni McCarthy, noting that their efforts had rekindled joy in the national game.
“Proud of the boys, the journey doesn’t end, it's starting, and to coach Benny, thank you for bringing back joy to our game,” he wrote on X.
Similarly, Dennis Ombachi highlighted the unifying effect of the Stars’ campaign, saying the team had restored belief in the Kenyan spirit and won the nation’s heart even off the pitch.
“Thank you Harambee Stars for reminding us that unity is stronger than division, for bringing back belief in the Kenyan spirit, and for showing the potential of our sports when backed with the full support of Kenyans. We may have lost this one, but off the pitch, you won the nation’s heart,” he said.
For many supporters, the tournament brought a long-awaited return of excitement to local football. Zawadi Bomu shared that watching the Harambee Stars had revived cherished memories of attending games with her late father.
“I am extremely proud of you. You did great. I haven’t enjoyed our local games this much since my dad left us ages ago. He loved local footie and I love it too, coz of him. Thank you for standing up and being counted. What a debut,” she wrote on X.
Another user, Ramadhan Faki, urged the government to capitalise on the momentum by investing more in sports, noting that Kenya’s potential was clear but required support.
“Big up to our boys! We may have lost the match, but we haven’t lost our resilience and spirit. We live to fight another day. Now is the time for the government to build on this momentum, invest more in the game and in all sports. The potential is there; we just need the support,” he said.
Other fans echoed the sentiment that the team had made the nation proud. Domionchari praised the squad for lifting the country’s flag and morale, while Collins Ogutu described the team’s performance as exceptional, reigniting love for the national side. Dr Aloise emphasised that the Stars had elevated Kenya’s profile on the continental stage, with their efforts recognised internationally.
“You have really made us proud. I have enjoyed a lot the past few weeks you have participated. You have kept our national image alive and flown our national flag high, such that the entire world recognised Kenya. Can't wait to watch you play again. Well done, our boys,” Aloise said.
Kenya’s run in the tournament saw them finish top of their group unbeaten, recording victories over DR Congo, Morocco and Zambia, and a draw against Angola. The team conceded only one goal in four matches, showcasing discipline and resilience.
Their quarter-final exit will still earn them Sh58 million, part of a CHAN 2024 prize fund increased by 75 per cent by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), with semi-finalists set to earn at least Sh77 million.
Third-place finishers will earn Sh90 million, runners-up Sh155 million and champions Sh453 million. Even teams eliminated in the group stage received between Sh26 million and Sh39 million.
Coach McCarthy also faced questions over his decision to drop Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo for the quarter-final. He, however, defended the choice as tactical, explaining that the midfield setup was designed to dominate play, with Marvin Nabwire and Alpha Onyango taking more advanced roles and Manzur Okwaro anchoring the midfield.
“Tactical decision. I thought the way we set up was really good, solid because we wanted to dominate in midfield, and Marvin [Nabwire] at his club is playing as an eight going forward and Alpha [Onyango] also very attack-minded, Manzur [Okwaro] sits,” McCarthy said.
He also expressed confidence in his squad despite the defeat.
“You saw even with a really strong team, you saw how quick, how much they wanted to run. So, we were chasing shadows, and I just thought the game was going the way the players that we set up [with]. That was the right set-up and nothing about it,” he added.
The Harambee Stars now turn their attention to upcoming World Cup qualifiers against The Gambia and Seychelles next month, aiming to build on the momentum created by a memorable CHAN run.
Top Stories Today
