Michael Olunga, Harambee Stars captain, appeals to Kenyans to support their first competitive home match in four years at Nyayo Stadium. Following significant renovations, the stadium will host a World Cup qualifier on March 23, 2025. Olunga expresses thanks to the government for facilitating stadium upgrades and encourages fans to provide essential support during the match.
Michael Olunga, captain of the Harambee Stars, conveys a heartfelt message to Kenyans in anticipation of their first home match in four years at the Nyayo National Stadium. The last competitive home match occurred on November 15, 2021, against Rwanda during the 2022 World Cup Qualifiers. Due to the absence of a CAF-approved stadium, home matches have been hosted abroad. Nyayo Stadium is now CAF-approved following renovations, and it will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying match against Gabon on March 23, 2025.
In preparation for the match, Olunga encourages fans to come out in significant numbers to support the team in their quest for a World Cup appearance. He stated, “I urge our fans and Kenyans at large to turn up in large numbers on Sunday and give us the 12th-man support that we need and have been missing. Kenyans love football and we are looking forward to meeting them on Sunday,” highlighting the importance of fan support.
Expressing his excitement, Olunga noted, “We will play our first competitive international match at home in four years and that will really be good.” He also extended his gratitude to the Kenyan government for ensuring that Nyayo Stadium meets CAF standards, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind these improvements.
Renovations are not limited to Nyayo Stadium; upgrades at Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani, are nearing completion. Additionally, progress is being made at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret and several other facilities, including renovations at Police Sacco Stadium, Kirigiti Stadium, and the Kasarani Annex. Notably, the new Talanta Sports City stadium is 40% completed, representing further investment in Kenyan sports infrastructure.
In summary, Michael Olunga’s message emphasizes the significance of fan support as Harambee Stars prepare for their first competitive home match in years. The successful refurbishment of Nyayo Stadium marks a milestone for Kenyan football, and Olunga’s gratitude towards the government underscores the collaborative effort in restoring international match venues. With continuing renovations and new constructions underway, the future of sports infrastructure in Kenya appears promising.
Original Source: www.mozzartsport.co.ke
