Harambee Stars galvanised our country in a way no other team or event has in the recent past. Their performance at CHAN allowed us to put our differences aside and celebrate being Kenyan once again. We had really missed that.

Sadly, their galant run ended after The Barea defeated them 4-3 on penalties, after drawing 1 – 1 during normal play and extra time.

If only this… If only that…

Theories and hypothesis are countless.

But at the end of the day, even though Harambee Stars marched off the Kasarani pitch dejected, the 36,000+ fans that were allowed into the stadium and thousands more following the game from screens in their homes, offices and public viewing centres applauded and celebrated their national heroes.

We embraced the Harambee Stars in all their glory, and also when the cloud of defeat cast a strong shadow over them and the country.

For a nation divided along political and tribal lines and a population lacking in hope because of a depressed economy, Harambee Stars gave Kenyans a reason to believe in themselves, see what we are capable of and for the first time in very many years, be united by our colours, stripes, shield and spears.

The Fans, thousands of them

Kenyan fans bought up all the tickets available in minutes and cheered for their stars for 90 plus minutes. They shouted, sung, danced, waved, whistled and supported their home team with all they had.

Most importantly, they showed up.

After the final whistle, Harambee Stars did not disappear into their changing rooms. They took a lap of honour around the stadium to acknowledge their fans.

For the luckier fans, they received jerseys and boots from their star players.

First Half

Kenya had the upper had from the opening whistle, controlling the pace of the game and pinning Madagascar to their own half, much to the delight of the spectators.

Second Half

Kenya still had the upper hand in the opening minutes. It wasn’t long before they got their first goal. After Madagascar equalised through a penalty, Kenya appeared to have lost lost control of the game.

It was clear in the fumbles, missed chances and questionable crosses.

Substitutions seemed to have affected the composure of the team.

Captain Abud Omar Khamis

This moment when Abud had an exchange with Referee Adalbert Diouf over an infraction showed what a leader he is. Standing for and controlling his team when it mattered most.

I stan a champ.

Penalties

Kenya’s Bryne Omondi saved a penalty.

Mike Kibwage’s was saved by Toldo and Alphonce Omija shot wide.

Our Stars live to shine another day.

The Photographers

Part of the team behind the photos you see on socials and print.