Kenya to Face Madagascar in CHAN 2024 Quarterfinals, Players Awarded Ksh2.5M Each After Win Over Zambia
Ogam’s Goal Seals the Victory
The tense encounter at Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani kept fans on edge. However, Ryan Ogam’s strike in the 75th minute proved decisive. The forward latched onto a pass and fired home, sending the stadium into wild celebrations.
Coach Benni McCarthy praised his side’s resilience after the match. He remarked,
“The boys gave everything. We controlled the game, and when the chance came, Ogam took it brilliantly.”
The victory meant Kenya avoided a tricky clash against Group B leaders Tanzania. Instead, they will face Madagascar in the last eight, with the quarterfinal set to be played on home soil.
President Ruto Delivers on Promise
Before the match, President William Ruto had promised a hefty bonus if Kenya triumphed. True to his word, each player pocketed Ksh2.5 million after the win.
Ruto congratulated the team, saying,
“Our Harambee Stars have made the nation proud. This win is proof that discipline and determination bring success.”
With earlier rewards factored in, the players have already bagged a staggering Ksh5 million each for their group stage heroics.
More Rewards Await
The stakes remain high. Ruto has promised even bigger incentives if the Stars make the semifinals. He declared,
“If the team qualifies for the last four, every player will receive an Affordable Housing unit and an additional Ksh1 million.”
Such rewards, many fans believe, could inspire the Stars to aim for continental glory.
Morocco Miss Out, Kenya Shine
Elsewhere, Morocco beat DR Congo 3-1 at Nyayo Stadium. Yet, their effort was not enough as Kenya’s consistency kept them top of the table. The Harambee Stars finished unbeaten in Group A with three wins and a draw, tallying 10 points.
The team’s steady form has fueled growing optimism that they can go all the way.
Fans Celebrate Despite Sanctions
The Zambia clash was played under restrictions after CAF sanctions, which led to ticket prices being slashed by 40 per cent. Nevertheless, the atmosphere remained electric. To ease congestion, the government also created six fan zones nationwide, giving supporters a near-stadium experience.
Security agencies reported calm throughout the match, with no major incidents recorded.
Now, as the quarterfinal against Madagascar looms, Kenyans across the country are rallying behind the Stars. The dream of lifting the CHAN trophy feels closer than ever.
ALSO READ: Ruto Urges Fans to Follow CAF Rules Ahead of Kenya vs Zambia Showdown
Kenya to Face Madagascar in CHAN 2024 Quarterfinals, Players Awarded Ksh2.5M Each After Win Over Zambia
