Millions slip through Harambee Stars’ fingers after Madagascar knockout
By Faith Lagat, August 22, 2025Harambee Stars’ fairytale run in the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) ended in heartbreak on Friday, August 22, after a 4-3 penalty shoot-out loss to Madagascar at the Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The tense quarterfinal clash had ended 1-1 after extra time, with Alphince Omija’s early strike cancelled out by Madagascar’s equaliser, leaving the Stars’ debut CHAN dream cut short.
The painful exit not only denied Kenya a chance at the semifinals but also cost the team millions in government-promised rewards, dampening what had been a historic campaign that ignited national pride.
Big promises, bigger stakes
Ahead of the tournament, President William Ruto pledged lucrative incentives to boost the players’ morale. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) outlined the package: Ksh1 million per player for each win, Ksh500,000 for a draw, Ksh60 million collectively for reaching the quarterfinals, Ksh70 million for the semifinals, and a staggering Ksh600 million for lifting the trophy.
The pledges energised the camp. On August 2, 2025, just before the Group A opener, Ruto—flanked by Sports CS Salim Mvurya and FKF officials—visited the squad, underscoring the government’s 15 per cent rise in sports funding and commitment to football.
Stars responded with grit and flair. On August 3, 2025, Austin Odhiambo’s stunning strike secured a 1-0 win over DR Congo, earning each player and technical staff Ksh1 million, promptly disbursed by August 4, 2025.
The team’s resilience shone again on August 17, 202,5 with another 1-0 win over Zambia, prompting Ruto to increase the reward to Ksh2.5 million per player, in celebrations joined by opposition leader Raila Odinga.
Quarterfinal heartbreak
With two wins in the so-called “Group of Death,” the Stars defied expectations to top their group and head into the knockouts with momentum. Confidence in coach Benni McCarthy’s revamped squad, strengthened by fresh inclusions such as Brian Michira, was high.
But in front of a packed Kasarani, the team faltered at the decisive moment. Despite fervent support and the players’ determination, Madagascar held firm, forcing penalties where Kenya’s composure deserted them. The loss meant missing out on the Ksh60 million quarterfinal bonus and a chance at the bigger rewards promised for deeper progression.
They have also missed the opportunity to become house owners after falling to Madagascar.
Looking ahead
The tournament may have ended in disappointment, but Harambee Stars’ campaign left a lasting mark. The team inspired a country with their fighting spirit, while Ruto’s rallying cry—“We believe in your capacity”—embodied the mood of unity that surrounded the squad.
As Kenya now looks toward the joint 2027 AFCON bid with Uganda and Tanzania, the lessons from CHAN 2024 are clear. The heartbreak of Kasarani highlights the thin margin between glory and despair, but the progress achieved offers a foundation to rebuild and aim higher.