‘Na Niko Na Deni Yenu’ – President Ruto’s Message to Harambee Stars as Team Eyes Quarters 

By Dennis Mabuka

President William Samoei Ruto has reminded Kenya’s Harambee Stars’ players that he owes them a cash reward after showing immense grit and resilience to hold Angola to a 1-1 draw in a dramatic Group ‘A’ clash of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) at the Kasarani Stadium on Thursday.

Playing in front of a boisterous home crowd at the Moi International Sports Centre, the Harambee Stars were forced to play with one man down for over 70 minutes after Marvin Nabwire was sent off in the 21st minute.

But Austin Odhiambo’s cooly taken penalty ensured Benni McCarthy’s side remained unbeaten in the tournament and top of the group with four points after two games. 

Angola, who had lost their opener to Morocco, started brightly and took the lead in the seventh minute when Jó Paciência slotted home a low shot after a well-worked move involving Beni Jetour.

“What a valiant display of skill and endurance by our gallant Harambee Stars. Reduced to 10 men early in the game, you stood tall, fought hard and covered every blade of grass on the pitch to hold Angola to a commanding draw,” the Head of State wrote on his social media pages.

“What you displayed this evening was not just football; it is the Kenyan spirit on show for Africa and the world. Courage. Grit. Patriotism. You have made us proud. Hongera vijana! Na niko na deni yenu vile tulikubaliana!” (I have your debt as we agreed).

Sh1 million-per-player pledge

Before the tournament kicked off, Ruto pledged that each player would pocket Sh1 million for every win and Sh500,000 for every draw. 

Already, the players have received their Sh1million package for defeating two-time CHAN champions DR Congo 1-0 in their opener. 

Additionally, the team stands to earn Sh60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, Sh70 million for making it to the semi-finals, and a staggering Sh600 million should they clinch the title.

Meanwhile, Cabinet Secretary for Sports Salim Mvurya congratulated Harambee Stars for their achievement, saying securing a draw against Angola was not a mean achievement.

“Despite being a man down, you held your ground with resilience and heart. Your spirited and tactical performance kept the entire nation on its feet, cheering, roaring, and standing with you in unity,” said Mvurya.

“Securing a draw against Angola is no small feat, and we are proud of your determination. I am confident this momentum will carry through to our next match on Sunday against Morocco.

Harambee Stars All the Way!”

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga said: “What a night for our country! To be here, in the stadium, and to witness such magnificent Harambee Stars.

“The energy was palpable. From the moment the players stepped onto the pitch to the final whistle, you could feel the passion of every Kenyan in the stands, the adrenaline keeping us all on the edge of our seats.

“To see our young, homegrown talent rise to the occasion and secure a victory, with a draw, against a strong team like Angola is incredibly inspiring. It shows what we are capable of when we stand together. Harambee Stars have not only put themselves at the top of Group A; they have put a smile on the face of every Kenyan.”

The draw saw Kenya go top of Group ‘A’ with four points from two matches, ahead of Morocco and DR Congo, who both have three. 

Angola’s draw left them with one point and needing a win in their final game against DR Congo to have any hopes of progressing.

For McCarthy, the result was further proof of his side’s growing belief and character. 

Angola will now face a must-win encounter against DR Congo in the next group game on Sunday, while Kenya can book a historic quarter-final place with a result against Morocco.