Victor Wanyama and Mrisho Ngasa share rivalry banter ahead of CHAN 2024 final in Nairobi
Both Morocco and Madagascar reached the knockout stages as group runners-up, each recording just one defeat, ironically to the host nations, with Morocco losing 1-0 to Kenya and Madagascar falling 2-1 to Tanzania.
On August 30, the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani in Nairobi, will stage a historic African Nations Championship (CHAN) final between Morocco and Madagascar. The North African giants are chasing a record third title, while the island nation dreams of winning their first-ever major CAF senior trophy.
Both Morocco and Madagascar advanced to the knockout rounds as group runners-up, each suffering only one defeat, ironically against the host nations. Morocco fell 1-0 to Kenya, while Madagascar lost 2-1 to Tanzania. Those setbacks, however, only seemed to fuel their determination, and now both sides stand on the brink of history.
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As anticipation builds, CHAN 2024 ambassadors Victor Wanyama, the former Harambee Stars captain, and Tanzanian football legend Mrisho Ngasa reflected on the journey, the Kenya–Tanzania rivalry, and their hopes for the grand finale.
“Our next-door neighbours are taking us too personal, but we love to joke,” Wanyama said in an interview with Citizen. “I have never lost against Tanzania, so if we meet, I know we would win.” Ngasa replied with a smile: “Kenya has a good team, they play well, and so does Tanzania, both styles are good.”
The two also emphasised the value of national team selection. “The call-up is a privilege.”
“When you’re given that chance, you must perform because many others deserved it too. Take it seriously.”
Wanyama also spoke candidly about the pressures of modern football. He admitted to avoiding social media criticism after matches, saying, “There are always people who don’t like you, so their comments might get to you. But the ones you cannot escape are those who tag you directly on your page.”
With Kenya out of the competition, he encouraged fans to keep their passion alive: “Fans, don’t lose hope even if our team is not there in the finals. Let’s come and enjoy the game, because the sweetness of football is in watching results unfold. Personally, I’d like our fans to support Morocco. Our goal against Madagascar was a real one, but we were denied.”
Ngasa, however, voiced support for the opposite side: “I thank Kenyans for their zeal and love for football. It’s funny that after Madagascar beat them, they started praying for Morocco to beat us. So now in the finals, we are supporting Madagascar since Kenya is behind Morocco.”
The stage is set for a final rich in contrasts: Morocco, with their experience, pedigree, and firepower, against Madagascar, powered by unity, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit. Whatever the outcome, Kasarani will be the theatre where a new chapter of African football history is written.
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