Harambee Stars have secured a historic debut win against Les Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the CHAN football tournament’s 8th edition, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. A 45th-minute solo goal from Gor Mahia’s midfield maestro, Austine Odhiambo, sealed a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Kasarani Stadium.
Kenya started strong in the first half with consistent attacks towards the DRC goal. However, they faced an early setback in the fifth minute when Kitambala finished from the edge of the box. Thankfully, VAR overturned the goal due to a foul on Kenyan defender, preserving the scoreline.
Despite some sluggish defending early on, DRC was unable to capitalize on the opportunity, allowing Kenya to settle into the game. The Stars enjoyed 63% possession as they slowly asserted dominance.
Austine Odhiambo, who was the standout performer of the match, picked up a ball at the edge of the 18-yard box and effortlessly glided past DRC’s defenders before coolly finishing to give Kenya a crucial lead going into the halftime break.
The second half saw DRC come out more determined, looking for an equalizer. However, Kenya stood firm under pressure, denying the visitors any clear-cut chances.
A blow came for Coach McCarthy’s side when teenager Manzur Suleiman Okwaro of KCB was forced off due to injury with 30 minutes remaining, just as the team was battling to hold onto their slim advantage. This setback could prove significant as Kenya prepares for Thursday’s match against Angola.
Despite enjoying more possession and playing with more intent in the second half, DRC could not break down Kenya’s improved defense.
The victory vindicates Coach McCarthy’s decision to withdraw from the CECAFA Four Nations tournament, hosted and won by Tanzania just weeks before CHAN. McCarthy had cited unfavorable conditions and requested more time to prepare for the more important CHAN tournament.
With the win, Kenya’s focus now shifts to their upcoming match against Angola on Thursday, 7 August. Another victory would move Kenya closer to a quarterfinal spot in their first-ever CHAN appearance. The team will later face Morocco on Sunday, 10 August, before wrapping up their group-stage campaign against Zambia on Sunday, 17 August. Only two teams will advance from this highly competitive Group A.
Playing in front of their home fans, the morale-boosting win sets up Kenya for their next challenges. Additionally, a significant incentive comes in the form of hefty allowances promised by President Ruto and former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko should the team continue to impress and secure positive results.
President Ruto has pledged a remarkable Ksh600 million for the team should they win the tournament, Ksh1 million per player for each win, and Ksh500,000 per player for every draw. He further promised Ksh60 million if the team reaches the quarterfinals and Ksh70 million if they make the semifinals. Sonko has also added Ksh400 million for the team if they win the tournament.
The game was attended by several government officials and prominent personalities, including President Ruto, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula.
