World Cup Qualifiers: Mariga urges fans to rally behind Harambee Stars
By Kenneth Mwenda, August 26, 2025Kenya Football Federation (FKF) Vice President McDonald Mariga has called on Kenyans to turn out in large numbers to support Harambee Stars as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup qualifiers on September 5 and 9, 2025.
Mariga’s appeal comes a few days after Harambee Stars were eliminated from the CHAN 2024 tournament following a 3-4 penalty shootout defeat to Madagascar at Kasarani Stadium. Despite the heartbreak, Mariga emphasised that the team’s journey is far from over and that the upcoming World Cup qualifiers represent a new opportunity for the squad to shine.
“Kenya, let’s turn up in full voice. Harambee Stars need us more than ever as they step into the World Cup qualifiers. Your amazing support from the stands makes all the difference. Let’s fill the stadium, cheer our boys, and push them to victory,” Mariga wrote in a passionate message on X on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.
He highlighted the critical role fans play in motivating the players during high-stakes matches, stressing that every cheer and chant can lift the team’s spirits and influence performance on the field.
Wanyama hails fan support
Adding to the context, Harambee Stars legend Victor Wanyama praised Kenyan fans for their passionate support during CHAN and urged young players to build on the experience gained during the tournament.
“They have now tested the waters and know what it takes to be at this level. 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 said, speaking on Monday, August 25, 2025.
Wanyama also lauded the atmosphere created by supporters, noting that even in fan zones across the country, Kenyans turned out in large numbers.
“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,” he added.