Gachagua hails Harambee Stars’ victory over Zambia
By Ascah Mwango, August 17, 2025Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has hailed Harambee Stars following their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia that secured them top spot in Group A of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
In a statement shared via his X account on Sunday, August 17, 2025, Gachagua praised the team for uplifting the nation’s spirit and making Kenyans proud on the international stage. He said their performance reflected the true Kenyan character of courage and perseverance, adding that the triumph was a bold step into the knockout stages.
“Super win for the Harambee Stars today! Your victory fills every Kenyan with pride as you showcase the true Kenyan spirit and resilience. Congratulations on a masterful performance and a bold entry into the quarter-finals. You’ve made us all proud! Always Harambee Stars!” Gachagua posted.
The match at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, was tense and closely fought, with Kenya dominating possession but struggling to break down a stubborn Zambian defence.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 75th minute when substitute Boniface Muchiri delivered a clever ball into the box. Ryan Ogam controlled it brilliantly before smashing it past goalkeeper Charles Kalumba, sending the 27,000 fans at Kasarani into wild celebrations.
Kenya’s backline held firm in the closing stages, with goalkeeper Farouk Shikhalo pulling off crucial saves to deny Zambia an equaliser. The result sealed Kenya’s place at the summit of Group A with 10 points, followed by Morocco, who beat DR Congo 3-1 at Nyayo Stadium to take second spot with nine points. DR Congo bowed out with six points, Angola finished on four, while Zambia exited without a single win.
Kenya now prepares for a quarter-final clash against Madagascar on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Kasarani. Coach Benni McCarthy praised his team’s resilience, saying they had exceeded expectations.
“When everybody said Group of Death, we would probably have had zero points after four games, but we found ourselves sitting on top of the mountain, and now we want to enjoy that view on top of that mountain,” he noted.
Zambia’s coach Avram Grant admitted his side was disappointed but said the tournament had been a valuable experience for his young squad.
Kenya finished the group stage unbeaten, with three wins and one draw, conceding only once.