Gachagua hails Harambee Stars after CHAN opener win
By Valerian Khakayi, August 3, 2025Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has congratulated the national football team, Harambee Stars, following their 1-0 victory over DR Congo in the opening match of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers held at Kasarani Stadium.
In a message shared on his official social media channels on Sunday, August 3, 2025, shortly after the match, Gachagua praised the team’s performance, commending their resilience and discipline on the pitch.
Additionally, he wished the team well in their upcoming matches and commended them for a job well done.
“Congratulations, Harambee Stars, on your 1-0 win in the opening CHAN Match against DR Congo at Kasarani! Well done, and best wishes in the upcoming matches!” Gachagua congratulated the team.
Gachagua’s remarks reflect growing national excitement as the team kicks off its CHAN campaign with a solid start. The match drew a strong crowd at the iconic Kasarani Stadium, with fans expressing optimism about Kenya’s chances in the tournament.
The win boosts Kenya’s morale ahead of its next fixtures in the CHAN qualifiers, as the country hopes to make a strong showing on the continental stage.
Harambee Stars’s match
The match was a tightly contested affair, with Harambee Stars showing composure and discipline throughout.
The lone goal came in the first half from Austin Odhiambo, the creative playmaker from Gor Mahia, who fired home after a slick move in the additional half-time minutes.
Austin danced through DR Congo’s defence before slotting home a nicely worked shot at the bottom corner.
The crowd erupted as Kenya took the lead against one of Africa’s most experienced sides, two-time CHAN champions DR Congo.
The win gives Harambee Stars an early advantage in the qualifiers and renewed hope of progressing further in the tournament.
The Harambee Stars are set to face their next opponent in their second group match, where a win could further solidify their chances of advancing, while DR Congo will look to bounce back against Morocco.
The CHAN tournament, held every two years, is reserved for players who compete in their home country’s domestic leagues—providing a unique platform to showcase emerging local talent. This time, Kenya’s rising stars stepped up and delivered