Alpha Onyango wins man of the match despite Madagascar’s loss
By Luke Oluoch, August 22, 2025Gor Mahia midfield enforcer Alpha Onyango has been feted with a second Man of the Match accolade as Kenya suffered elimination from the ongoing African Nations Championship on Friday, August 22, 2025, following a penalty shoot-out loss to Madagascar.
Onyango made history by becoming the first Kenyan player to merit the award reserved for each game’s most outstanding player, following his win in Group A’s opener against DR Congo on Sunday, August 3, 2025.
The win set the tone for Benni McCarthy’s team, who went on to top the much-billed “Group of Death” group as winners, with the former Gor Mahia youth youngster earning the match plaudits.
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He was again on the podium to collect his second award, underscoring his influential role in McCarthy’s team.
Man of the Match
“A performance full of fight and spirit! Onyango claims the TotalEnergies man of the match award,” a statement summarizing Onyango’s contribution from CAF read.
Speaking after the clash, a dejected Onyango stated that the team remains thankful and proud of their performances after seeing their quest for the title come to a sudden halt.
Kenya’s run in CHAN
Against all odds, the Kenyan team drew Angola 1-1 before edging the two-time CHAN winners, Morocco, 1-0 despite playing with a numerical disadvantage in its opening three group games.
Kenya wrapped up their group tie against Zambia with Ryan Ogam’s solo goal, seeing the team end the group on 10 points and qualify for the knockout stages.
Bryne Bayo Omondi and Ryan Ogam, who finished the tournament with three goals, are the only other Kenyans to have won the accolade.
The recognition, although significant, comes as Onyango and the team are reeling from their cruel elimination from the tournament.
CHAN dream ends
Stars’ fairytale run in the ongoing Championship came to a crashing end at the quarterfinal stage following a 4-3 penalty shoot-out loss to Madagascar.
Kenya’s push for a semifinal spot in only their debut appearance seemed on course after taking an early lead through Alphonce Omija’s opener.
The advantage was, however, cut short after Madagascar equalised after the hour mark, sending the clash to extra time.
The hard-fighting Islanders finally upended Benni McCarthy’s team after regulation time in a tense lottery of penalty kicks, winning 4-3 to advance to the last four.
End of the road!
The heartbreak compounded a teary and disappointing end for the Stars, who not only ended their continental journey but also missed out on the bountiful rewards of Ksh1 million each for every player pledged by President William Ruto for a victory in the quarterfinal tie.