Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has hailed Harambee Stars goalkeeper Byrne Omondi for his efforts in attempting to keep out goals from Madagascan players.

In a statement on Friday, August 22, 2025, after Kenya was edged out of the CHAN competition on penalties, Passaris said that Omondi’s brilliance shone through the entire game.

“Byrne Omondi, Kenya’s Wall Between the Posts! You stood tall when it mattered most, carrying the nation’s hopes with every save. In a match filled with pressure and grit, you rose above and delivered a performance worthy of legends,” Passaris remarked.

Brilliant goalkeeper

“Even in defeat, your brilliance shone through. We celebrate your courage, composure, and unwavering spirit! Man of the Match, no question. You didn’t just guard the goal; you guarded our pride.”

Until the match against Madagascar, Kenya had maintained an unbeaten record in all its group stage matches.

The competition equally made the players multi-millionaires after the government promised life-changing sums of cash for every win or draw on the road.

Coupled with the support from home fans and tactical experience from head coach Benni McCarthy, the Harambee Stars had set out for the title before their hopes were dimmed.

Edged out of CHAN

Harambee Stars were eliminated from the CHAN competition after drawing 1-1 in regular time and going on a goalless draw at the end of extra time.

The Kenyan side was defeated on penalties 3-4, to ensure Madagascar books a seat at the semi-final matches.

All eyes are now on Tanzania as it plays against Morocco to fight for a spot at the CHAN 2024 semi-finals.

Kenya suffered its first loss of the campaign despite starting with a strong squad and opening the scoreboard with the first goal.

The visitors pulled one back after the break through a penalty kick to stay level with Harambee Stars, setting the stage for a hard-fought game in which they became victorious.

Kenya’s second goal by Ryan Ogam was disqualified in the second half of the game played in front of Kenyan fans at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.