Former Harambee Stars Captain Victor Wanyama Reveals 3 Major Reasons Behind Dream CHAN 2024 Run

Kenya’s Harambee Stars may have exited the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) earlier than hoped, but the tournament left a lasting impression on both players and fans. 

Former captain Victor Wanyama, who is the CHAN 2024 trophy ambassador representing Kenya. shared his reflections, highlighting the importance of fan support, team spirit, and the tournament’s impact on local football.

Speaking on NTV in a recent interview, Wanyama hailed the impact that the fans brought, which allowed Stars to punch above their weight in group A, facing the likes of Morocco, Angola, Zambia and DR Congo and finishing top.

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“The turnout of the fans has kept us going in this tournament,” Wanyama said. 

“They played a big part, and seeing that support means a lot. Hopefully, it won’t just be CHAN that brings them back to the stadiums. With the league starting soon, I hope they turn out in big numbers there too. 

“That’s how we grow our game. If stadiums are packed like before, it will attract more foreign players to our league and make it better.”

Wanyama, credited coach Benni McCarthy for instilling belief in the squad.

“The secret was the way the coach gave players confidence. It’s not easy for young players to step on the pitch and perform like that. 

“But with the freedom he gave us, they went out and expressed themselves. That made a big difference. Players were playing without fear, passing the ball around—it was wonderful to watch.”

Wanyama hopes CHAN 2024 will give players who impressed a chance to be snapped up by bigger teams in the exact same way the likes of Yves Bissouma - now of Tottenham and Patson Daka - Now of Leicester City - benefitted from previous editions.

He stressed the tournament’s value to local-based players.

“CHAN plays a big part in our leagues. Local players get the chance to showcase themselves on the international stage and gain experience. It motivates them to go back to their clubs and compete harder. It also pushes those who missed out to improve and fight for a spot next time. That competitiveness makes our league stronger.”

Wanyama believes the experience will serve as a foundation for the future.

“Now the players have tested the waters and know what it takes. My advice to them is simple—go back, work hard, and keep the same level or even higher.

“ AFCON 2027 is around the corner, and with more qualifiers ahead, we need to build on this momentum.”