President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday night made a solidarity phone call to Harambee Stars in Egypt moments before their highly anticipated match with Tanzania in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) derby.
The team's coach Sébastien Migné stated that the president informed the team that the country was fully supporting them.
The president also conceded that Kenya could not win the tournament but told them that he was still proud of them.
"When we received a message of the president of our republic of Kenya, he told us 'we know you cannot win this tournament but we want to be proud of you, give your best'," he told the team.
The call was seemingly the final push the team needed to beat Tanzania, which was considered Kenya's fierce rival, 3-2 despite a slow start.
The first goal was a classy delivery by Japan-based striker Michael Olunga before two more followed.
Speaking to the media, Olunga admitted that Taifa Stars from Tanzania was vicious in the first half and that they stepped up in the second half to claim victory.
"In the second half we got better, dominated the match and were more offensive and I think that led to our victory," he celebrated.
Various Kenyan leaders sent their congratulatory messages to the team shortly after their impressive performance.
"What a splendid performance Harambee Stars coupled with great composure coming from behind twice to deservedly win the game. Bravo! Kenyans are firmly rooting for you. All the best as you continue striving to qualify for the AFCON2019 round of 16," celebrated former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
"Congratulations Harambee Stars for the hard-fought victory against our good neighbours Tanzania and well done Michael Olunga for winning man of the match in this encounter. Let's now focus on our next match against Senegal," posted Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko.
"Congratulations Harambee Stars for your resilience and a game well played, we are so proud of you for flying the Kenyan flag high in AFCON2019 as you prepare for your next match remember we are all behind you and we trust you will continue to excel," shared Uhuru.
The team is now preparing to face Senegal on Monday, July 1.
