Kenyans erupted in joy on Sunday evening as the Harambee Stars pulled a stunning victory over Morocco, a football powerhouse ranked among Africa’s best.
From Nairobi’s bustling streets to remote village centres, celebrations broke out as fans waved flags and sang patriotic songs, hailing the national team’s grit and determination.
Kenya’s Harambee Stars stunned continental football giants Morocco with a decisive victory in the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN), igniting nationwide celebrations and boosting the team’s chances in the tournament.
Kenyans in the stadium danced and sang tunes while celebrating the victory. They waved the Kenyan flag and sang in unison.
The result, achieved against a side ranked among Africa’s strongest, has been hailed as one of Kenya’s most memorable recent performances on the continental stage.
The Harambee Stars shocked two-time CHAN champions, Morocco, with a gritty 1-0 victory at a packed Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The win not only adds fuel to Kenya’s CHAN campaign but also secures their spot in the quarter-finals with a match to spare.
Leaders flooded social media with their congratulatory messages hailing Harambee Stars for the win.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudvadi said Harambee Stars has shown the World what Kenya is made of.
"Well, in Harambee Stars! With grit, heart, and unity, you triumphed over Morocco even with 10 men on the pitch. You’ve shown the world the spirit of Kenya, undaunted, determined, and destined for greatness. Onward to even bigger victories!"
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said, "What a moment to be proud of the Harambee Stars! Congratulations, our team! Once again, you have made our great nation proud! Your win is a win for Kenya. Keep winning! Keep it, Stars! God Bless Kenya!"
Siaya Governor James Orengo said Harambee Stars continue to make Kenya proud.
"What a match, what a performance! Harambee Stars, you’ve lifted our spirits and made Kenya proud once again, a well-deserved triumph over Morocco. Game ni Harambee," he said.
Ryan Ogam’s 42nd-minute strike proved decisive at a raucous Moi International Sports Centre, as Benni McCarthy’s side defied the odds and Morocco’s unbeaten CHAN record to seize early control of Group A.
Ogam steered in the winner, and McCarthy’s men then defended the lead with remarkable resolve after Chrispine Erambo’s red card upgraded by VAR in first-half stoppage time, left the co-hosts with ten men for the entire second half.
The result, following a 1–0 win over DR Congo and a 1–1 draw with Angola, lifts Kenya to seven points from three games and leaves them within touching distance of a historic quarter-final berth on their tournament debut.
