'We Thought We Won it' - Harambee Stars Defender Admits They Underestimated Madagascar After CHAN 2024 Exit

Mohammed Siraj has admitted Harambee Stars’ were a little complacent against Madagascar, which may have had a hand in seeing them shocked 4-3 on penalties to be eliminated at the quarter final stage of the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN).

Siraj, who has been one of the most standout performers at the tournament in the chances he was given, came on as a substitute against Madagascar and played as a left winger, and when the game went to penalties, he slotted his spotkick home.

However, his teammates Mike Kibwage and Alphonce Omija were not as successful with their attempts and in the end, it was Madagascar who would win, silencing the home crowd at Kasarani Stadium.

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Speaking after the match, Siraj admitted complacency may have cost the team.

After all, Kenya had upset the odds to finish top of group A on 10 points, a group that comprised heavyweights DR Congo, Morocco, Angola and Zambia, so there was a lot of optimism that there was every possibility they would easily deal with Madagascar.

“We thought we had won the game when we went a goal up but they equalised and made it harder for us. Before long, we were taking penalties, and it was over for us.”

Despite the disappointment, Siraj noted that the tournament helped him grow in confidence and urged fans to support the national team in September’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Seychelles.

Siraj highlighted the lessons from the tournament:

“I have grown so much in confidence. This is a different level compared to the KPL, which has made me better as a player. I have learnt it is never over until it is really over.”

For the Harambee Stars, the defeat is a bitter reminder of the fine margins in knockout football. Despite dominating large stretches of the match, they were punished for lapses in concentration and lack of ruthlessness in front of goal.

Kenya now shifts focus to September’s World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Seychelles. Siraj has urged fans not to give up, saying their support will be crucial if the Stars are to bounce back from this bitter disappointment.