Cherargei urges Harambee Stars to focus on AFCON after CHAN setback
By Cy Muganda, August 22, 2025Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has called on the Harambee Stars to shift their focus to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament following their quarter-final exit from the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
In a statement posted on his X account on Friday, August 22, 2025, Cherargei expressed pride in the national team’s campaign while encouraging them to channel their efforts toward future competitions.
“Exceptional play by HarambeeStars with master class performance. We are proud of you, you gave it all for the love of Kenya,” Cherargei stated.
The Senator emphasised that despite the tournament exit, the team had exceeded expectations and elevated Kenya’s football profile internationally.
“You have outperformed yourselves, you have put Kenya on the world map of Football,” he stated.
According to the outspoken lawmaker, the experience gained at CHAN should serve as motivation for the squad ahead of their AFCON campaign.
“Let’s focus now on the AFCON tournament,” he urged.
“Viva Team Kenya, one nation, one flag, one indivisible people of God Almighty. Well done, boys!” his post added.
End of the road
Kenya’s run at the 2025 African Nations Championship came to an abrupt end at the Moi Sports Centre in Kasarani on Friday, August 22, 2025, where they were defeated 4-3 on penalties by Madagascar in the quarter-finals.
Making their debut in the tournament, the Harambee Stars initially seemed poised for a historic semi-final berth after Alphonce Omija’s powerful header gave them the lead shortly after the break.
However, moments later, a strike from striker Ryan Ogam was ruled out for a foul in the build-up.
Madagascar equalised in the 68th minute when Fenohasina Razafimanana converted a penalty after a foul in the box, sending the match into extra time.
With neither side able to score during extra time, the game was decided by penalties, where Madagascar held their nerve to win 4-3.
Kenya’s Mohammed Siraj, Daniel Sakari, and Sylvester Owino successfully converted their spot kicks, while Omija and Kibwage missed theirs. Madagascar’s Toky Niaina sealed the victory with the decisive penalty.