CHAN: President Ruto praises 10-man Kenya for gallant Angola draw

Kenyan President William Ruto has praised Harambee Stars for covering every blade of grass to snatch a 1-1 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A draw at Kasarani Stadium on Thursday.

Despite going down to 10-men in the 21st minute when Marvin Nabwire was sent off, Kenya under coach Benni McCarthy battled on to secure a vital point from their second game of the CHAN in East Africa.

Austin Odhiambo’s coolly-taken penalty ensured 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.

However, Angola thought they had snatched victory in stoppage time when substitute Kaporal scored from a rebound, but the goal was ruled out by VAR for offside in a dramatic end to the game.

“What a valiant display of skill and endurance by our gallant Harambee Stars,” wrote the Head of State on his social media pages. “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.

“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.”

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed said: “Down to 10 men early on, but the boys dug deep and showed real character to earn a crucial point against a strong Angola side. To the fans who packed the stadium and stood with the team – your passion and energy were felt throughout. Thank you very much.”

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 leaves them with one point and needing a win in their final game against DR Congo to have any hopes of progressing.