Kenya may have lost 3-0 to Senegal during the Monday night clash at AFCON but it is one moment during the match that has left Kenyans proud.
In the first half, it was an evenly matched affair ending goalless for both teams.
The moment that had everyone at the edge of their seats was when Liverpool forward Sadio Mane stepped forward to take a penalty for Senegal after Aboud Omar had brought down a Senegalese player in the danger area.
In the Kenyan corner was goalkeeper Patrick Matasi who impressively saved the penalty in the 27th minute and kept Kenya in the game.
His skill didn't go unnoticed as Kenyans praised him for his crucial play with ODM Leader Raila Odinga noting with pride the effort put by the Kenyan team
"Thank you Harambee Stars for giving your best. We live to fight another day. Let’s build on the AFCON experience for future tournaments. Great effort by Patrick Matasi," Raila wrote.
"Watching Matasi in action reminded me of Muhamud Abbas. We have talent . Kudos Harambee Stars," Senator Mutula Kilonzo Jr tweeted.
"Well done Harambee Stars. You proudly represented us. Excellent performance. Full respect, Matasi our Hero," former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo stated.
"You did well! Matasi is our (Kenya's) man of the match!" one user wrote.
Another wrote, "Patriotism was defined by the Kenyan team. Kudos for a job well done. Thank you Matasi."
Senegal booked their spot in the last 16 as runners up behind Algeria after netting in three goals, one by Ismaila Sarr and a brace (two goals) from Mane.
Kenya's hopes now lie in the balance if Angola loses to Mali and Benin loses to Cameroon then we are through to last 16.
"Both Cameroon and Mali Must win their matches to be sure of qualifying to the last 16. A loss for Benin and Angola gives us a free ride into the knock out stages. Having studied their games I am still confident that Kenya can qualify to the last 16," a brief analysis by Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko unveiled.
