Harambee Stars goalkeeper Farouk Shikalo during a training session/HANDOUT

Farouk Shikhalo has explained why the CHAN 2024 Harambee Stars squad was a particularly special group despite elimination at quater final level.

Harambee Stars goalkeeper Farouk Shikhalo has described the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad as the best he has ever been part of, praising the team’s extraordinary unity and the leadership of coach Benni McCarthy.

Kenya’s CHAN 2024 journey on home soil has captured the nation’s imagination, with the Stars defying expectations to produce a spirited campaign. For Shikhalo, who has featured for the national team for a decade, this particular group stands out.

Kenya were knocked out by Madagascar on penalties at the quarter final stage following a 1-1 draw in regulation time, with the game ending 4-3 to the island Nation’s good.

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The side had finished top of a tough group A that comprised Morocco, Angola, Zambia and DR Congo, but their journey had to be cut short in the manner it was.

However, speaking after Kenya’s impressive CHAN run, Shikhalo was effusive in his praise for the team:

“I have been a national team player for 10 years, and this is the squad with the biggest camaraderie. 

“I have never seen this level of teamwork elsewhere. The coach believes in everyone, and we have been supporting each other madly.”

Shikhalo compared the experience to his time at the 2019 AFCON, noting that while he has represented the Stars in big tournaments before, the bond within the CHAN 2024 team was unique.

Kenya entered the tournament with many doubting their ability to compete, but McCarthy’s men proved the critics wrong.

“Many wrote us off when we started. We thank God we proved them wrong. I want to thank the fans who have motivated us throughout, as well as President William Ruto, who has been our number one supporter,” Shikhalo said.

Shikhalo also underlined the financial significance of the tournament for local-based players:

“To earn five million shillings in 15 days is a blessing. Not even the President himself earns that in 15 days. If you plan accordingly, that could be life-changing money.”

The goalkeeper believes CHAN 2024 will be a springboard for several Kenyan players to secure moves abroad.

“I am sure there are a couple of players who will earn moves abroad. Not one, not two,” he stated confidently.

Since his appointment, Benni McCarthy has emphasized discipline, belief, and collective responsibility. His ability to foster unity and bring the best out of Kenya’s local-based talents has drawn widespread praise.

For Shikhalo, the South African’s leadership has been pivotal in creating what he now regards as the most tightly bonded Harambee Stars squad in his career.