CHAN: Ex-international Situma lauds Kenya for making country proud

Despite Kenya national team’s exit from the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), former defensive midfielder James Situma has praised the players for making the country proud.

Harambee Stars’ dream run at their debut CHAN ended in heartbreak on Friday as Madagascar held their nerve in a dramatic penalty shoot-out to reach the semifinals. After a tense 1-1 draw across 120 minutes, Madagascar prevailed 4-3 on spot-kicks, with Toky Rakotondraibe converting the decisive penalty after Alphonce Omija missed for the hosts.

According to Situma, who earned 39 appearances for Kenya, and scored two goals, Harambee Stars should keep their heads held high despite going out on home soil.

“When CHAN draw was done at K.I.C.C sometime back and we happened to be in the group of death. We had no options but to meet DR Congo, Angola, Morocco and Zambia. We were underdogs and that tag was the reference. Yes! February we were supposed to be off the ground but again we needed some few days on the clock so that we could taxi comfortably,” said Situma.

“August it was and the Football Kenya Federation together with the Sports ministry burned midnight oil to make this dream come true. We were granted take off and yes it happened in style. Kenya’s win against DR Congo, a draw against Angola, historic win against group favourites Morocco and a must win against Zambia saw us book a date with Madagascar in quarterfinals. Level in the last eight after 90+ minutes and unlucky in the penalty shoot-outs against Madagascar.”

He added: “I watched a daring group. The boys gave us hopes and belief, the desire and willingness to win will never be questioned. Like any other sports, us going to penalties was a 50-50 affair. Hard luck that we missed the last two attempts. Let us not discredit your love for the sport, your loyalty for the country and hunger to succeed. We watched beautiful football that came along with victories.”

He concluded: “You did beyond many expectations, you made the country proud and believe me we have a cocktail of talented player’s. Heads high and the future looks bright. Once again well done.”

Kenya were bidding to reach their first continental semi-final in 38 years.