Former Harambee Stars captain, Victor Wanyama, has called on Kenyan football fans to throw their support behind Morocco in Saturday’s CHAN finals against Madagascar.
Wanyama, a legendary figure in Kenyan football, made his sentiments known during a special CHAN trophy tour event at Citizen TV, where he was joined by Tanzanian football icon Mrisho Ngasa.
A Controversial Exit Fuels Wanyama’s Preference
Harambee Stars, Kenya's national team, were unfortunately knocked out in the quarter-finals through a penalty shootout.
When asked who he would like Kenyan fans to support in the final, Wanyama explicitly stated his preference for Morocco. His decision stems from Kenya's controversial match against Madagascar, which he feels was unfairly decided.
"Ah, mimi ningependa washabikie Morocco," Wanyama declared.
"Sababu naona ile mechi ya Madagascar bao yetu ile ilikuwa halali so bado kidogo… naumia kidogo nikiangalia Madagascar kuwa pale naona ingelikuwa sisi."
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(Translation: "Ah, I would like them to support Morocco. Because I feel that in that match against Madagascar, our goal was legitimate. So I still feel a bit… it pains me a bit when I look at Madagascar, thinking it could have been us.")
Despite the exit, Wanyama expressed pride in the team's performance, acknowledging the players' hard work and the crucial support from fans and the president.
CHAN Prestioug Trophy
The prestigious CHAN 2024 trophy, on a tour, symbolises the continent's footballing aspirations. It features 54 lines representing Africa's 54 nations, with gold and silver colours highlighting the tournament's prestige and progress.
The trophy also bears the map of Africa, signifying solidarity. The ninth edition of the tournament has seen significant interest, with all three East African host nations – Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania – remarkably reaching the quarter-finals.
Friendly Banter with Mrisho Ngasa
Adding a touch of light-hearted rivalry to the discussion, Wanyama jokingly referenced a comment made by Ngasa about Morocco beating Tanzania with only 10 players.
Wanyama quipped that while Tanzania was beaten by Morocco with a man down, Kenya was defeated by Madagascar with a full squad, suggesting that Ngasa's team was looking for excuses. This exchange underscored the friendly competition among East African neighbours37.
Boosting Local Football and Fan Engagement
Beyond the final, Wanyama shared a broader message for Kenyan football. He commended the increased fan attendance throughout the tournament, describing it as "a positive thing" that has propelled the national team.
He encouraged fans to continue this enthusiasm by supporting local leagues and clubs, which he believes is crucial for nurturing talent and making the Kenyan Premier League more competitive89.
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"My final message to the fans is to ask them to come out in numbers… to come and watch the final, because I know it is not a coincidence that the final is being held here. We are a nation that loves football, and I know my people will come out to support the final," Wanyama urged.
He also called for more sponsors to rally behind local clubs and the Kenya Premier League, asserting that strong sponsorship is key to elevating the league's stature and attracting international players.
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