CHAN: Gor Mahia's Alpha Onyango excited to represent Kenya at continental stage
"The mood has been very positive. Everyone is working hard to earn selection. There’s a real sense of excitement. Hosting CHAN for the first time makes it even more special
For Kenya's Harambee Stars, the upcoming African Nations Championships CHAN, will provide an opportunity for local based players to show what they are capable of and showcase the country's football capabilities to the world.
With the country hosting the tournament for the first time from August 2 to 30, 2025 together with neighbours Uganda and Tanzania, the opportunity to shine has arrived for players and Onyango is hoping to help Kenya to a respectable showing.
Placed in group A with the DR Congo, Morocco, Angola and Zambia, it will be a tough outing for the Kenyan squad but Onyango is adamant that home fans should expect fireworks.
"It means everything to us as local players to play in a major continental championship. This is a chance to represent Kenya on a big stage against some of Africa’s best. It’s a proud moment," he told CAFOnline.
"The mood has been very positive. Everyone is working hard to earn selection. There’s a real sense of excitement. Hosting CHAN for the first time makes it even more special, he added.
The Kenyan team, led by head coach Benni McCarthy, have their own hopes. They are looking to make it past the group stage and Onyango is hopeful.
"We’re in a tough group with big teams like Morocco, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia. All three fixtures are exciting. I can’t single one out, they’re all huge games, and we’re motivated for each one," he states.
"It’s a massive platform. Personally, it’s a chance to showcase my talent. Professionally, it’s a step toward reaching the next level of my career. It’s an opportunity to be seen across Africa and beyond."
This week, the local organizing committee released ticket prices for the tournament, with prices ranging from Ksh 200 for the terrace tickets. The influence of the fans will be major, Onyango admits.
"We urge all our fans to come in large numbers and support us. We’ll be playing at Kasarani Stadium, and having the stands full would give us a big boost. Their belief in us will drive us forward.
Kenya takes on former champions DR Congo in their opening match, Sunday, 3 August 2025.
