Kenya’s Harambee Stars have gone into the books after a good show at the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championship, which has been staged in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Placed in Group A, comprising African giants and competition favourites DR Congo, Morocco, Zambia, and Angola, it proved an uphill task for Harambee Stars to reach the tournament’s knockout stages.

However, they defied the odds and advanced to the quarterfinals in their first-ever appearance at the tourney as group winners with 10 points. The campaign was marked by resilience, determination, and moments that will remain a proud chapter in Kenyan football.

Dream start at CHAN 2024

The Stars began their debut in style, edging DR Congo 1-0 courtesy of a precise strike from Austin Odhiambo, a goal that delivered Kenya’s maiden victory in the competition.

The second game showcased Kenya’s fighting spirit. Despite being reduced to 10 men and trailing early, Odhiambo once again came to the rescue, scoring the equaliser in a 1-1 draw against Angola that kept qualification hopes alive.

The third fixture produced one of the tournament’s standout moments. With Kenya down to 10 men once more, Ryan Wesley Ogam netted a sensational winner against Morocco, sealing a historic 1-0 triumph and booking Kenya’s place in the last eight.

Already through to the knockouts, Kenya pushed for more. Ogam struck again, this time against Zambia, to hand the Stars another 1-0 win and secure a flawless group stage record.

The tournament also showcased the rise of Kenya’s youthful talents. Ogam and Odhiambo ended as joint top scorers with two goals apiece, while teenager Manzur Suleiman impressed in an unfamiliar midfield role, earning plaudits for his maturity.

Also, the campaign produced individual stars who rose to the occasion. Alpha Onyango’s midfield dominance earned him two Man of the Match awards; Byrne Omondi’s heroic saves against Morocco saw him recognised as the best on the pitch, while Ogam’s dazzling attacking displays earned him the accolade against Zambia.

However, Kenya’s historic run ended in heartbreak at the quarterfinal stage. Alphonce Omija’s towering header gave the Stars an early lead, but Madagascar equalised before forcing penalties after a 1-1 draw. Kenya narrowly lost the shootout 4-3, bowing out with pride.

Though the debut ended in the last eight, Kenya proved they belong on the continental stage. Attention now turns to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where Harambee Stars will face The Gambia on September 5 and Seychelles on September 9, 2025, at Kasarani Stadium.