Harambee Stars' campaign at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) came to a heartbreaking end on Friday, August 22, following a 4-3 defeat via penalties to Madagascar in the quarter-finals. Despite the exit, Kenyans exuded immense pride in the national team, which showed rare competitiveness and grit in a continental competition for the first time in ages. Throughout the tournament, there were certain names in the Harambee Stars squad that consistently commanded media attention, the likes of Boniface Muchiri, Aboud Omar, Austine Odhiambo and the impressive Ryan Ogam were hailed throughout the competition for their contributions to Kenya topping an extremely competitive Group A. However, there also exists a group of players who, despite not garnering as much media attention, were the difference between success and failure for Kenya throughout the Harambee Stars' run in the CHAN 2024. Sylvester Owino: The Gor Mahia centre-back was arguably the most important player in the Harambee Stars' defensive line throughout the tournament.
Excluding the quarter final against Madagascar, Owino completed the full 90 minutes in every match, pointing to his importance in coach Benni McCarthy's side. Owino showcased a combination of positional discipline, aerial strength and a strong command at the back, giving the Harambee Stars a solid foundation from the back. Harambee Stars defender Sylvester Owino during a past training session.
Photo Sylvester Owino Alpha Onyango: Another criminally unsung Harambee Stars hero in CHAN 2024 is midfielder Alpha Onyango.
While he was not on the scoresheet in the tournament, the Gor Mahia star was also a near-permanent figure in McCarthy's starting XI in the tournament. He played every game and clocked an impressive 117 minutes in the extra-time clash against Madagascar. In midfield, Onyango was able to dictate play, break up opposition attacks, especially during the game against Morocco, and was quite decent in possession, especially when the Stars at times struggled to retain the ball. Notably, his ability to cover ground offered the likes of Ryan Ogam and Austine Odhiambo the freedom to explore more dangerous areas on the pitch, leading to goals. Photo Citizen Digital Michael Kibwage Kibwage was Owino's partner at centre back and another crucial yet underrated presence in the backline. He featured in all matches and, like Onyango, brought a sense of calm at the back under pressure.
