President William Ruto has praised the Harambee Stars for their spirited performance at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), despite bowing out in the quarter-finals after a tense penalty shootout against Madagascar at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Friday, August 22, 2025.

In a statement shared via his official X account following the heartbreaking loss, Ruto said the team had “silenced doubters, lifted the spirit of a nation, and reminded us that when Kenyans play with courage, confidence, and determination, nothing is impossible.”

Kenya pushed Madagascar to the very limit, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw before the Stars were edged out in the lottery of penalties. But the Head of State insisted there was no dishonour in the manner of their exit.

“We had a remarkable run. Harambee Stars have silenced doubters, lifted the spirit of a nation, and reminded us that when Kenyans play with courage, confidence, and determination, nothing is impossible. Yes, we bowed out at the quarter-finals — but we fought valiantly to the very end. To lose in the lottery of penalties is no dishonour; to push the contest to such a finish is itself a badge of greatness,” Ruto stated.

He congratulated Madagascar for their victory but maintained that Harambee Stars’ performance had left a lasting mark on Kenyan football.

“We congratulate Madagascar on their victory. Yet throughout this tournament, our boys displayed resilience, grit, and an indomitable will. Every Kenyan is proud of you. You have united the country, given us moments of joy, and lifted our hopes,” he wrote on X.

President Ruto also called on Kenyans to continue supporting the tournament as proud co-hosts of the historic Pamoja CHAN, urging fans to fill Kasarani with energy and cheer all the way to the final whistle.

Looking ahead, the President expressed optimism about Kenya’s future in football, particularly the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the country will co-host.

“Though we exit the tournament, we remain the proud co-hosts of the historic Pamoja CHAN. Let us continue to fill Kasarani with cheer, energy, pride, and love for the game — all the way to the final whistle. For our boys, the journey does not end here. Let us carry the lessons of this campaign into the road ahead, as we prepare for an even more spectacular Africa Cup of Nations in 2027. Kenya shall rise. Kenya shall triumph,” Ruto stated.