Victor Wanyama: Money is big motivation for Harambee Stars

Former Harambee Stars player Victor Wanyama has said it takes a lot to motivate players and achieve success in football.

He said money is a key motivator for Harambee Stars, coupled with support, guidance from the coach Benni McCarthy.

In a video recorded by his wife Serah Teshna, she asked him what his opinion is on the Harambee Stars and Morocco match.

According to Teshna, Harambee Stars played exceptionally after they were promised Sh1 million for every win and Sh500,000 for da raw.

“The problem with Kenyan football is money, because after Harambee Stars players were promised Sh1 million for every win and Sh500,000 for every draw, they are performing exceptionally, true or false,” Wanyama’s wife Serah Teshna said.

She asked Wanyama his opinion and whether Harambee Stars are playing well due to the financial motivation.

"It's somehow true, money is everything, and motivation is a big thing in football, and nothing can motivate players other than money. We have the world-class coach Benni McCarthy; you can see what he has done since the beginning of the campaign. I expected a tough game from Morocco, and it was tough. The tactics from the coach also paid off,” Wanyama replied.

On Sunday, Harambee Stars secured a 1-0 victory over two-time champions Morocco in their third Group A match of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

With the win, Harambee Stars have secured a spot in the quarterfinals and will look to build on this momentum as they take on Zambia in their final group match.

President William Ruto has announced a significant cash incentive for Harambee Stars ahead of their upcoming clash against Zambia, promising Sh2.5 million for each player and member of the technical bench if the team secures a win on Sunday, August 17.

Speaking after he paid a visit to the team following their victory over Morocco, Ruto expressed confidence in the national football team and urged them to aim for victory.

“Sunday, I want us to have a new deal. God willing, we are winning. If we win, each person will get Sh2.5 million, including the technical bench,” he said.

The president also promised additional rewards for the team if they win their quarter-finals.

He said they would each get a Sh1 million reward and a house under the affordable housing programme.

“For the quarters, if we win, on top of the Sh1 million, I will add the affordable housing you have asked for,” he told the players.