‘I Sincerely Apologize’ - Abud Omar Pens Heartfelt Message to Harambee Stars Fans after CHAN 2024 Disappointment

Harambee Stars captain Abud Omar has reacted to his team’s elimination from the 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN 2024) where they crashed out at the quarter-final.

Kenya lost 4-3 on post-match penalties to Madagascar at Kasarani Stadium on Friday, having played out a 1-1 draw that went into extra-time before the shootouts were necessitated to separate the two teams.

Omar was among those who played the entire match and he had an impressive performance although his team was on the losing end.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

Harambee Stars had put in a gallant performance at the group stage, topping what was seen as the ‘Group of Death’ that also had Morocco, DR Congo, Angola and Zambia and the Kenya Police defender expressed his disappointment while lauding fans for pushing the team.

“Dear Kenyans, yesterday’s loss weighs heavily on us. We know we have let Kenyans down and on behalf of the team, I sincerely apologize,” Omar posted on Facebook.

“To all our fans, thank you for your massive support and unity—you have been our greatest strength. Though we fell short today, we promise to rise again and fight harder for our country and for you,” he added, expressing optimism that they will pick up the pieces and improve in their next assignments.

Coach Benni McCarthy and his team have little time to feel sorry for themselves as they will be back in action in two weeks’ time for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against The Gambia and Seychelles both on home soil on September 5 and 8 respectively.

Kenya are already out of contention for a World Cup place but will be looking to boost their confidence and rankings with good results although the CHAN 2024 team will now have to contend with stiff competition from foreign-based players, who will form the bulk of McCarthy’s squad next month.