As the CHAN 2024 fever grips Nairobi, not all fans are cheering for Kenya. Some, shut out from buying tickets to Harambee Stars matches, are now pledging support for other nations-like DR Congo.
“I had no choice,” said 29-year-old football fan Joseph Kasumba. “Kasongo denied us tickets. So today, I’ll be in the stands wearing Congo colours.”
He wasn’t joking. By mid-morning, scores of disappointed Kenyan supporters were seen queueing outside Nyayo Stadium-not for Kenya’s match, but to watch DR Congo in action.
Tickets or Nothing
The scramble for tickets started after Harambee Stars’ opening match. Fans, eager to experience the historic home tournament, flooded online platforms and physical booths, only to find tickets sold out within minutes.
“I actually tried purchasing the tickets after the first game and I couldn’t get one,” wrote X user @BrandoneNgala. “I had to be a Zambia fan, 001.”
Others were less amused. “Deep down your heart, you wish our president could invite you personally,” posted @KibetTowett11. Another, simply calling the switch “silly,” didn’t hold back.
Digital Divide and Distribution Gaps
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) has yet to respond to growing criticism about ticket access and distribution. Many fans claim the process favours insiders or is too reliant on digital platforms—excluding less tech-savvy supporters.
“I tried online. I tried at the gate. I even tried brokers,” said Miriam Achieng’, a Nairobi-based trader. “Nothing. I love Harambee Stars, but I can’t cheer them from home.”
Football analysts suggest the surge in demand was underestimated. “This is Kenya’s first CHAN hosting. Emotions are high. The LOC should’ve prepared for overflow interest,” said sports journalist Kevin Mutinda.
Social Media Storm
On X (formerly Twitter), the conversation quickly turned heated. Some users mocked those shifting allegiance. Others empathized.
“You can even change your citizenship, mate. It’s a free world,” @254_roy38068 posted sarcastically. Another fan, @Vinkor_rop, added bluntly: “Go support Congo.”
Still, some defended the frustration. “That’s why you are all sellouts,” one comment read. “All the best. Join them and then it’s wise to follow them back to their country,” quipped another.
A Bigger Picture
The real issue, many argue, isn’t loyalty. It’s access.
CHAN 2024 is a rare moment for Kenyan fans to watch elite football on home soil. But for now, some are being forced to sit on the sidelines-or worse, support someone else.
“I didn’t want to root for Congo,” Joseph added with a laugh. “But if my own team locks me out, what do they expect?”
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