Victor Wanyama has praised Kenyan fans for their passionate support during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and urged the country’s rising football talents to use the tournament as a springboard for future success.

Speaking on Monday, August 25, 2025, during a local TV interview, the Harambee Stars legend reflected on Kenya’s historic CHAN debut, where the team reached the quarter-finals before suffering a heartbreaking 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to Madagascar at Kasarani Stadium.

The former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder, who served as one of CHAN’s official ambassadors, admitted the loss was painful but said the experience would benefit young players.

“They have now tested the waters and know what it takes to be at this level,” Wanyama said. “The only advice I can give them is to go back, work hard, and push themselves to return to such big stages. We have AFCON 2027 around the corner and other qualifiers coming, so maintaining this level or going even higher is important.”

Wanyama, who captained Kenya at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, emphasised that the tournament was not only about results but also about development. Many Harambee Stars players earned their first taste of continental action during the event.

Fans set bar high

The midfielder also hailed the atmosphere created by supporters throughout the tournament. He revealed that he had attended the Zambia game and was struck by the energy inside and outside the stadiums.

“The turnout was amazing, even in fan zones across town,” he said. “It means a lot to see fans wanting to come and support the national team. With good results, what can we not do? We’ve set the bar high, and hopefully this becomes a habit – supporting our clubs every weekend and then filling the stadiums when the national team plays.”

Despite the disappointment of Kenya’s exit, Wanyama believes the CHAN experience has lit a spark ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which the country will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.

“The atmosphere during CHAN showed that bigger things are coming,” he added. “If we keep this momentum, AFCON 2027 will be an unforgettable moment for our region.”

Kenya’s gallant CHAN campaign may have ended in heartbreak, but with the backing of passionate supporters and guidance from icons like Wanyama, the future looks bright for the Harambee Stars.