Ruto urges Kenyans to show up and cheer Harambee Stars

 President William Ruto [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

President William Ruto on Tuesday urged Kenyans to come out in large numbers and cheer the football team Harambee Stars as they lock horns with South Sudan in an international friendly at Kasarani Stadium.

Through a video shared by Nick Mwendwa, President of Football Kenya Federation (FKF), the head of state said he was impressed by the crowd that showed up at the Al Janoub Stadium when Kenya faced Qatar last week, urging locals to continue in the same spirit.

“Congratulations Harambee Stars for winning against the Qatar national team last week. I am happy very many fans showed up in Qatar to cheer our team.

“As you are aware, we will be playing against South Sudan. I would like to urge all Kenyans to show up and cheer our champions,” said Ruto before walking off.

Last week, Harambee Stars beat Qatar 2-1 courtesy of a header by Joseph Okumu and a late strike by Amos Nondi.

Speaking after the match, head coach Engin Firat said he was proud of the boys and urged them to follow up on the win with a strong performance against South Sudan.

“I don't know how it feels for the Kenyans but I know how it feels for the Kenyans in Qatar. Happy that they are proud and self-confident because I know how it is to live as a foreigner in another country," said Firat.

“After the match, they now have something that can even change their lives there because they can now go out with real pride,” he said.

Firat said the result was a significant step in Kenyan football as the team had competed with a decent opponent and managed to get a result.

Qatar hosted the 2022 World Cup but exited at the group stage after losing all their matches.