Ruto celebrates with Harambee Stars after win over DR Congo

President William Ruto met the Harambee Stars players moments after their thrilling 1-0 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A clash at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday, August 3, 2025

The Head of State, visibly elated, congratulated the players in their dressing room, fulfilling a motivational promise made days earlier. Ruto had pledged Ksh1 million for every win, Ksh500,000 for a draw, Ksh60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, Ksh70 million for the semifinals, and a staggering Ksh600 million should the team make it to the final.

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His visit electrified the atmosphere as the players broke into cheers, celebrating both the crucial win and the cash rewards. A light moment occurred when captain Aboud Omar pointed to one of the players, prompting Ruto to joke, “Huyu mimi nitampanga,” drawing laughter from the team and staff.

The president’s presence came after he visited the team’s camp last week for a morale-boosting session where he outlined the incentives. The players’ performance on the pitch mirrored their renewed spirit.

Odhiambo’s golden strike

The match’s only goal came in the dying minutes of the first half courtesy of a brilliant left-footed finish by Austin Odhiambo. The midfielder latched onto a precise through-ball from David Sakwa and buried it into the bottom corner, sparking jubilant celebrations among fans at a sun-drenched Kasarani.

Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi played a pivotal role in securing the win, making a critical save in the 67th minute to deny DR Congo an equalizer and preserve Kenya’s narrow lead.

Momentum builds ahead

Following the win, Harambee Stars head coach Bennie McCarthy praised the President’s involvement: “It was a great initiative from President Ruto to come in and motivate the boys by giving them huge incentives. That lifted the team spirit and focus tremendously.”

The victory earned Kenya three vital points and renewed belief as the nation chases CHAN glory on home soil. With significant bonuses still up for grabs and morale at an all-time high, the Harambee Stars now shift their focus to the next group match, carrying with them the weight of expectation — and a nation’s dreams.