Harambee Stars players celebrate. They beat Zanzibar to win the Cecafa tournament at the Machakos Stadium. [Photo/Sportsyahoo]
The national team Harambee Stars finally rolled back the years, after seeing off a stubborn Zanzibar side to claim this year’s Cecafa Cup.
In a match filled with intrigues, the Stars took the lead twice but were pegged back by the Heroes of Zanzibar.
The Stars were however not to be denied in the post-match penalties, with goalkeeper Patrick Matasi saving three of the penalties to leave Kenyans at the Machakos Stadium elated.
In the stands at the Kenyatta Stadium, Deputy President William Ruto joined thousands of fans to cheer on the team, with the fans clearly putting aside their political differences to enjoy the game and cheer on their boys.
The team finally lifted the trophy they last won in 2003, when the tournament was last held in the country.
The Stars won Sh3 million for their victory, but the amount will rise with promises from leaders including the Deputy President and also Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko.
Mr. Sonko and his Machakos colleague Alfred Mutua dished out goodies to the home supporters.
“This excitement you are witnessing best narrates how sports, and football, can bring Kenyans together,” Confederation of East and Central Africa Football Associations (Cecafa) secretary-general Nicholas Musonye said.