Kenya, who were bidding to reach their first continental semi-final in 38 years, failed to progress after Madagascar secured a 4-3 win on penalties after the game had settled for a 1-1 draw across 120 minutes of extra time.
Toky Rakotondraibe converted Madagascar’s decisive penalty after Alphonce Omija had missed for the hosts. Kenya’s superb campaign in the group stages saw them finish top of Group A with 10 points, while Madagascar finished second in Group B with seven points.
Harambee Stars kicked off their CHAN campaign with a 1-0 win against two-time CHAN winners DR Congo, before securing a 1-1 draw against Angola.
Kenya recovered to beat another two-time CHAN champions, Morocco, 1-0, despite playing with 10 men before rounding off their group matches with a 1-0 win against Zambia.
'Kenya shall rise again, Kenya shall triumph'
The head of state, who has been a common figure during Kenya’s CHAN matches, described Harambee Stars' display as remarkable, adding that the journey should not come to an end because of going out of the CHAN.
“We had a remarkable run. Harambee Stars have silenced doubters, lifted the spirit of a nation, and reminded us that when Kenyans play with courage, confidence, and determination, nothing is impossible,” said President Ruto, in a message to the players and the nation.
“Yes, we bowed out at the quarter-finals - but we fought valiantly to the very end. To lose in the lottery of penalties is no dishonour; to push the contest to such a finish is itself a badge of greatness.
"We congratulate Madagascar on their victory. Yet throughout this tournament, our boys displayed resilience, grit, and an indomitable will. Every Kenyan is proud of you. You have united the country, given us moments of joy, and lifted our hopes.
“Though we exit the tournament, we remain the proud co-hosts of the historic Pamoja CHAN. Let us continue to fill Kasarani with cheer, energy, pride, and love for the game - all the way to the final whistle.
“For our boys, the journey doesn't end here. Let us carry the lessons of this campaign into the road ahead, as we prepare for an even more spectacular Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027. Kenya shall rise again, Kenya shall triumph.”
Kenya’s Vice-President Kithure Kindiki said: “Harambee Stars, you have demonstrated the power of focus. Kenya is proud of you. While the outcome tonight has not favoured us, we must accept that each game in soccer ends with a win, a draw or a loss.”
He added: “There is nothing you ought to have done that you didn't do. Congratulations, AFCON 2027 is just around the corner.”
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga said, “Kudos to Harambee Stars for a good display of football. You’ve managed to unite and make Kenya proud of you. Congratulations to Madagascar on your win and qualification to the CHAN semi-finals.”
Kenya made history during debut campaign
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, said Harambee Stars had written history and shown the world that the country’s talent was indisputable.
He said: “In our debut at CHAN, you have written history and shown the world that Kenya’s talent is undeniable.
“Though the journey ends here, you walk away as winners, proving our resilience, our heart, and our unyielding belief that we belong at the very top.
"This moment is not an ending, but the beginning of a brighter future for Kenyan football.”
He concluded: “To Kenyans everywhere, you have risen with pride and passion, filling the stadiums and fan zones with unshakable support. Together, we have displayed to the world our love for football and our readiness to host the grandest of stages.
"CHAN 2024 is only the dawn - the best of Harambee Stars, and of Kenyan football, still lies ahead.”
Kenya will now prepare to face Gambia and Seychelles in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in September.
