Kalonzo hails Harambee Stars’ resilience in comeback against Angola
By Mustafa Juma, August 7, 2025Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has lauded the Harambee Stars for their determined and spirited performance against Angola in a Thursday, August 7, 2025, African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A clash at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, that ended in a hard-fought draw.
Taking to his official social media accounts soon after the match, Kalonzo celebrated the national team’s resilience, especially after coming from behind with only ten men on the pitch.
He noted the team had shown true character and heart, winning the admiration of Kenyans across the country.
“The Nation is so proud of you, Harambee Stars. Coming from behind against Angola, with a man down, you showed your fighting spirit in an incredibly resilient performance,” Kalonzo stated.
The former vice president further emphasised the importance of national unity through sport, commending the team for giving Kenyans a reason to celebrate and believe.
Kalonzo’s encouragement
He encouraged the players to keep pushing forward as they continue their group stage journey.
“We will keep cheering you on! Tushabikie #HarambeeStars,” he posted on X.
Harambee Stars’ resilience
Ten-man Harambee Stars on Thursday, August 7, 2025, held Angola to a dramatic 1-1 draw in a fiery Group A encounter at the 2024 CHAN tournament.
Angola struck first in the seventh minute when striker Jó Paciência capitalised on a defensive lapse to calmly slot the ball past Kenya’s Byrne Odhiambo. The 29-year-old forward, formerly of Cape Town City, showed composure and precision to give Pedro Gonçalves’ side a dream start.
But Kenya responded swiftly. Just four minutes later, the referee pointed to the spot after a foul. Austin Odhiambo stepped up and confidently converted the penalty in the 11th minute, his second goal of the tournament, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
The momentum seemed to be swinging in Kenya’s favour until the 21st minute, when midfielder Marvin Nabwire received a straight red card following a VAR review. Initially booked with a yellow for a reckless tackle on Angola’s Além, the decision was upgraded to a red, reducing Kenya to ten men for the rest of the match.