The Harambee Stars made history at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, reaching the quarterfinals in their inaugural campaign. It was a journey of resilience, passion, and national pride, one that will live long in the memory of Kenyan football.

A Winning Start

Kenya announced its arrival on the CHAN stage with a 1-0 victory over DR Congo in the opening match. The winning moment came from Austine Odhiambo, whose clinical strike sealed not just three points, but Kenya’s first-ever win at the tournament.

Fighting Spirit Against Angola

In the second match, the Stars once again looked to Odhiambo for inspiration. Playing with 10 men, Kenya fell behind early but showed remarkable character. Odhiambo found the equalizer, earning the team a 1-1 draw and keeping the dream alive.

Austine Odhiambo celebrates his goal against Angola

Ogam’s Magic Stuns Morocco

The third group match was a true test of spirit. Reduced to 10 men yet again, the Harambee Stars faced a formidable Moroccan side. Ryan Wesley Ogam delivered a moment of magic with a magnificent strike, sealing a 1-0 victory and confirming Kenya’s place in the quarterfinals for the first time ever.

Finishing Strong Against Zambia

Though already qualified, the Stars wanted more. Facing Zambia in the final group game, Kenya needed a win to cement top spot in the group. Ogam struck again — his second of the tournament — to hand Kenya a 1-0 victory and ensure a perfect finish to the group stage.

Confidence in Young Talents

One of the biggest positives from the campaign was the confidence shown in Kenya’s young players. Standout performers like Manzur Suleiman and Ryan Ogam rose to the occasion, proving that the future is bright.

Ogam rewarded the coach’s faith with two decisive strikes, including the winner against Morocco and another against Zambia, while Manzur thrived in an unfamiliar defensive midfield role, winning praise for his composure and consistency.

In the end, Austine Odhiambo and Ryan Ogam finished as Kenya’s joint top scorers at the tournament with two goals each — a testament to the trust in young talent delivering on the biggest stage.

Manzur Suleiman in action against Morocco

Man of the Match Heroes

As much as this was a team effort, individual brilliance also stood out in Kenya’s historic run. Alpha Onyango was the heartbeat of the midfield, scooping two Man of the Match awards. His tireless work rate and sharp vision dictated play, particularly in the opening match against DR Congo and later in the quarterfinal against Madagascar, where he held the team together in a pressure-filled encounter.

Up front, Ryan Ogam turned promise into performance. Beyond his spectacular goals, his movement, energy, and composure under pressure earned him the Man of the Match award against Zambia, a fitting recognition of his influence in attack.

And in goal, Byrne Omondi was Kenya’s wall. His standout display against Morocco, which included decisive saves and unshakable leadership, saw him named Man of the Match. That performance underlined his importance not just as a shot-stopper but as a commander of the backline.

Together, these performances showed that Harambee Stars had heroes across the pitch — players ready to rise to the big occasion and carry the hopes of a nation.

Quarter Final heartbreak Against Madagascar

In the quarterfinal, Kenya faced Madagascar in a tightly contested clash. Alphonce Omija gave Kenya the lead with a sublime header, but Madagascar equalized, forcing the game into extra time. After a tense 1-1 stalemate, the match was decided on penalties. The Harambee Stars bowed out 4-3 in the shootout — their historic run ending in heartbreak, but with heads held high.

A Nation United

Beyond the results, the campaign was defined by the incredible support from fans. Match after match, Kenyans turned up in massive numbers — in the stadiums and at fan zones — painting the atmosphere red, green, black, and white. The euphoria was unmatched, a true reflection of a nation united behind its team.

The Road Ahead

Though the journey ended in the quarterfinals, this debut campaign proved that Harambee Stars belong on the continental stage. It was not just about making history, but about inspiring hope and pride in millions of Kenyans.

Now, the focus shifts to the next challenge: the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Kenya will host The Gambia on September 5, 2025, and Seychelles on September 9, 2025, both at Kasarani Stadium (kick-off 4:00 pm). The Stars will look to build on their CHAN momentum as they continue chasing even bigger dreams.

Harambee Stars, thank you for the memories. You made history. You made us proud

Also Read: CHAN 2024: Harambee Stars Beat Zambia to Seal Strong Group Stage Finish