Calls for Kenya vs Tanzania Friendly Intensify After CHAN Heartbreak

Barely a day after both Kenya and Tanzania were eliminated from the 2024 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN), calls for a friendly football match between the two countries intensified.
What began as online banter quickly escalated into calls for a football match, with notable figures joining the conversation.
Tensions between the two countries arose after allegations that Kenyans had bought tickets for a match in Tanzania, preventing Tanzanians from turning up for their guarter-final match at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
This alleged issue received significant attention online, prompting officials from both countries to respond. Tanzanians took the matter personally, seizing the opportunity to mock Kenya’s performance in the tournament. In response, Kenyans, who excel at roasting opponents online, avidly joined in with the banter.
The matter escalated after Kenya, who played first,were knocked out of CHAN after losing to Madagascar,Tanzania again, took advantage and mocked Kenya without knowing what awaited them.
Equally, they lost to Morocco, whom Kenya had beaten in the group stages, leading to their exit from the tournament.
In an effort to ease the tension and banter, Kenyans have called for a friendly football match between the two neighbouring nations.
Kenyan international journalist Larry Madowo has backed this idea, saying that a friendly match would ease the tension and determine who is superior.
“We need a friendly match between Harambee and Taifa Stars to determine who the champion is, and for respect to prevail. If these neighbours had won against Morocco, we would have moved out of the East African Community because of the abuse. Now we want a friendly,” Larry said.
On his part, Itumbi said, “As part of Jamhuri Celebrations, I propose a friendly match between Harambee Stars and Taifa Stars. Played Home and Away. Our banter would translate to a good game.’’
The Harambee Stars, roared on by a partisan Kasarani crowd, were bidding to reach their first continental semi-final in 38 years.
But after a tense 1-1 draw across 120 minutes, Madagascar prevailed 4-3 on spot-kicks, with Toky Rakotondraibe converting the decisive penalty after Alphonce Omija missed.
While the exit from CHAN remains a bitter conclusion to what had been a historic tournament for Kenya, leaders, including President William Ruto,congratulated the Harambee Starsfor the resilience, unity, and superb performance they exuded during the tournament.