Mahia and Harambee Stars defender Alphonse Omija delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude to the team’s dedicated fans after their extraordinary journey in the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024.
With a heavy heart, Omija reflected on his missed penalty in the nail-biting quarter-finals against Madagascar, yet his spirit remained undeterred as he thanked the fans for their unwavering loyalty and electric support throughout the tournament.
“To our incredible fans, thank you for your steadfast encouragement. We stood tall and united because of your presence. I am deeply grateful to God for the unforgettable moments we shared in this competition, and I hold onto hope for even greater days ahead. We will continue to fight to make your dreams come true. With immense hope in our hearts, we forge ahead,” Omija passionately shared on his social media page.
Harambee Stars, making their debut in the tournament since its establishment in 2009, astonished everyone by toppling African powerhouses like Morocco, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia in what many called the “group of death.” Their journey culminated in the quarter-finals, where they faced Madagascar in a gripping showdown, ultimately falling in a dramatic penalty shootout after a tense 1-1 draw.
While they may not have achieved the ultimate victory, Harambee Stars brought pride to Kenya, showcasing their vibrant passion for football in East Africa, as CAF lauded their spirited performances and commitment to the beautiful game.
“Feeling what everyone around us feels, we yearned to create a magical and unforgettable moment as a team, and above all, for our beloved nation. We poured our hearts into every match, but sadly, our adventure concluded too soon,” Omija reflected, encapsulating the bittersweet emotions of the team’s remarkable journey.
The team will now prepare for the World Cup qualification match against Gambia on 5th September 2025 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.