Kenya’s debut dream at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) may have ended in heartbreak. Still, midfielder Alpha Onyango offered a silver lining with his inspired performance, earning him the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award despite the Harambee Stars’ penalty shoot-out defeat to Madagascar.
Onyango’s recognition came in a bittersweet moment for the co-hosts, who fell 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Nairobi on Friday.
“Happy, but would have been happier with a win”
Standing with his award in hand, Onyango’s emotions reflected the duality of triumph and disappointment.
“I am happy to be named TotalEnergies Man of the Match but would have been happier if we won the game and progressed to the next round,” he admitted.
Kenya had led through Alphonce Omija’s towering header early in the second half, before Madagascar equalised from the spot through Fenohasina Razafimaro.
A dramatic shoot-out followed, with Omija and Mike Kibwage missing crucial kicks as Madagascar advanced.
Onyango’s energy, composure, and tactical discipline in midfield, however, earned him deserved recognition from CAF’s technical panel.
Kenya bow out with heads high
Despite the crushing exit, Onyango stressed that Kenya’s players had no reason to hide their pride.
“It is sad that we didn’t progress because we gave our all. Despite exiting today we leave with our heads held high,” he said.
It was a campaign that had already rewritten the country’s football story. On debut, Kenya had topped Group A ahead of Morocco and DR Congo, conceding just once in four games.
The performance ignited national passion, with Kasarani Stadium packed to capacity throughout the campaign.
Onyango, playing his first major international tournament, emerged as one of the team’s most consistent performers.
His ability to link play and break opposition attacks stood out, particularly in a tense knockout contest against seasoned opponents.
Penalties are nobody’s game
Reflecting on the cruel end, Onyango summed up the agony of a shoot-out.
“We put up a fight and penalties are not anyone’s game. We are heartbroken not to have achieved our targets but we have to move on,” he said.
For Kenya, the journey ends short of a historic semi-final, but the foundation for future success looks set.
Players like Onyango now carry the experience of competing on a continental stage under pressure, experience that could shape the next generation of Harambee Stars.
