President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga were among the dignitaries who graced the match between the national team Harambee Stars and Gabon.
The sold-out game ended with a defeat for hosts Harambee Stars as Gabon star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang found the back of the net twice.
Kenyan skipper, Michael Olunga scored the consolation goal for Harambee Stars, in the game that ended 2-1.
President William Ruto in a statement said Harambee Stars
put on a spirited fight.
He added that the government will continue to support the
national team to ensure that it gets better prepared and motivated to deliver
results in the next fixtures.
“Harambee Stars put up a spirited fight against Gabon in
today's thrilling match. We will keep supporting our boys to ensure that they
are better prepared and motivated to deliver results in the coming fixtures."
“At the Nyayo National Stadium, joined thousands of our soccer enthusiasts in cheering Harambee Stars,” Ruto said.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed
said the turnout by the fans felt special.
He thanked Kenyans for their support, adding that despite
the Harambee Stars loss, there is always room for improvement.
“A gallant fight from Harambee Stars, but we live to fight another day. Huge thanks to all Kenyans for the incredible support - the 12th man was truly behind the boys today, and it felt special after years of playing away from home. We keep pushing forward,” Hussein said after the game.
