‘Never in My Wildest Dreams’ - Harambee Stars Midfielder Lost for Words After Presidential Award

Harambee Stars midfielder Alpha Onyango is still in awe at the honour bestowed on him by President William Ruto during the Mashujaa Day celebrations.

Onyango was among four Harambee Stars players, including Abud Omar, Byrne Omondi and Ryan Ogam, who were feted for their contributions to sport following their starring role for the national team during the 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN 2024).

The National Heroes Council selected the four, as well as team manager and data analyst Nick Kimanthi, for being a shining light when Benni McCarthy’s team beat the odds to make it past a tough group with Onyango named Man of the Match twice in the five games Kenya played.

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Reflecting on the award, Onyango says he has dreamt of playing for some of the world’s top teams but never imagined that he would stand on the podium as one of Kenya’s heroes so early in his career.

“Yesterday [Monday], during Mashujaa Day, I was deeply humbled to be named among the national heroes of our country,” Onyango posted on Facebook.

“As a young boy growing up, I always dreamt of playing in the iconic stadiums like the San Siro, the Bernabeu and wearing the jerseys of clubs I admired like Real Madrid. But not once did I ever imagine being called a national hero.

“To say “dreams do come true” would be a lie because this wasn’t even in my wildest dreams. This just proves that everything is possible when you stay true to your path and give your all.”

Onyango was a standout performer for Kenya, making them hard to beat, with his work rate in midfield. He did not just shield the defence but also drove the team forward and has since become one of McCarthy's favourites.

The Gor Mahia midfielder was awarded Man of the Match awards after Kenya’s opening game of the tournament against DR Congo, when McCarthy’s team won 1-1, as well as the heartbreaking quarter-final loss on post-match penalties to Madagascar, when Harambee Stars played out a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

His performances attracted the interest of Tunisian giants Etoile du Sahal but a move did not materialise after K’Ogalo refused to sanction the transfer, leaving him distraught, but the Presidential award has eased his pain somewhat.