- FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga has labelled Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 performance as the beginning of a special journey.
- He also thanked head coach Benni McCarthy for building a strong foundation for the Harambee Stars.
The agony of Harambee Stars’ African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 exit is still hurting many Kenyans, but according to former professional player McDonald Mariga, this should not be the time to lose hope. The ex-Harambee Stars midfielder is looking past the painful defeat, declaring that the astonishing loss to the Barea was the start of something special.
McDonald Mariga’s message to Kenyans and Harambee Stars players
Mariga, who interacted with the Harambee Stars players a lot since the start of the tournament, has backed Kenya to perform better in the upcoming tournaments.
In addition, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President has thanked all the people who supported Harambee Stars in their CHAN journey.
“Kenya’s dream of lifting the CHAN 2024 title ended on Friday, August 22, 20245 when Harambee Stars was knocked out at the quarter-final stage by Madagascar. Madagascar secured a 3 (1) – 4 (1) victory in the match that was played at the Kasarani Stadium.
So proud of the boys despite the CHAN exit you fought with heart, and this is only the beginning of something special. Huge thanks to H.E. the President, FKF, and our incredible fans from Homa Bay to Nairobi, Mombasa to Kakamega – your incredible support carried the team all the way. Grateful as well to the Pullman & Radisson Blue staff for always making match days memorable,” read part of his statement.
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Mariga urges Harambee Stars supporters to back McCarthy and the team
The former Inter Milan player ended by appreciating Kenya football team head coach Benni McCarthy and the individuals who work together with him for making Harambee Stars fans believe in the team again.
“To coach Benni McCarthy and the entire technical bench – thank you for the foundation you’ve built. Now, we shift focus to the world cup qualifiers.
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Let’s rally behind the team and show Africa what Kenya is made of!” commented Mariga.
McCarthy and his charges are expected to take a few days break before starting their preparations for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup 2026 qualifiers scheduled to be played in September. Harambee Stars will battle it out with the Gambia and Seychelles in the two fixtures. Although the team is likely to fail to qualify for the world cup that will be staged in Mexico, Canada and the United States, they will do their best to win their remaining qualifying fixtures.
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