Kibwage breaks silence after CHAN penalty miss
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 26.08.25. | 07:47
The defender lauded the team’s resilience and unity throughout the tournament and praised the fans for their unwavering support
Harambee Stars defender Michael Kibwage has spoken for the first time following Kenya’s painful exit from the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
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The former KCB captain was at the center of Kenya’s heartbreak last Friday when his spot-kick, the team’s third in the shootout against Madagascar was saved by goalkeeper Ramandimbisoa “Toldo” Lalain’arijaka Michel.
Kibwage’s frustration was evident as he kicked the air in anger moments after the miss.
Taking to his social media platforms on Monday morning, the centre-back expressed both disappointment and pride in their journey, while striking an optimistic tone for the future of Kenyan football.
“Football can be cruel. Some pains take a while to settle in,” he admitted on X.
“We gave it our all, wanted to make the country proud. Sadly, we had to exit in a painful way.”
Kibwage lauded the team’s resilience and unity throughout the tournament and praised the fans for their unwavering support.
“Very few gave us a chance, but you, our dear fans, believed in us and pushed us every step of the way. We are truly grateful for your support and truly sorry we didn’t keep the party going.”
Despite the heartbreak, the 26-year-old defender remains hopeful that Kenya’s CHAN campaign will serve as a launchpad for future success.
“We can only look up with pride because this is only the beginning. Asanteni.”
Kenya had been chasing a historic first-ever semi-final spot in CHAN, but now the team will shift focus to the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
For the first time in recent years, the Harambee Stars will play World Cup Qualifiers on home soil, starting with a clash against Gambia on 5 September at the newly refurbished Kasarani Stadium, followed by a tie against Seychelles on 9 September at the same venue.
The same day will also see Kenya host a Group F match between Gambia and Burundi at Nyayo Stadium.
Kenya currently sits fourth in Group F with six points, 10 points behind leaders Ivory Coast.
