By Kennedy Nalyanya
Kenya has finally arrived on the continental stage, and they did it with a bang. In their long-awaited debut at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024, the Harambee Stars secured a stunning 1-0 victory over two-time champions DR Congo. A sold-out crowd at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi erupted as Austin Odhiambo's first-half strike made the difference in a hard-fought Group A opener.
The CHAN tournament, a platform exclusively for players in their domestic leagues, was the perfect stage for Kenya's new generation to announce themselves. After a nervy start that saw a DR Congo goal disallowed by VAR, the hosts settled into the rhythm of the game. Buoyed by the deafening support of 60,000 fans, they held their discipline against DR Congo's early dominance.
The breakthrough came just before halftime. In the 45+2 minute, Odhiambo latched onto a precise pass from David Sakwa and calmly slotted a left-footed shot into the bottom corner. The stadium went wild, as Kenya—making their first-ever appearance in the finals—took the lead against one of the tournament's most successful teams.
In the second half, DR Congo, desperate to end their goal-scoring drought, pushed for an equalizer. They created several chances, including close-range headers and a powerful drive from Heltone Kayembe that was brilliantly tipped over by goalkeeper Byrne Omondi. But Kenya's defense, led by the solid duo of Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija, held firm.
Coach Benni McCarthy made smart tactical substitutions to shore up the midfield and protect the lead. As seven tense minutes of stoppage time ticked away, the home side weathered the storm and held on for a historic win. This victory makes Kenya only the third debut nation to win their opening match in the tournament's history.
For DR Congo, the defeat extends their winless streak to five matches, putting pressure on them for their next game. Kenya will look to build on this incredible start when they face Angola on Thursday.
What an opening night! Do you think Kenya can carry this momentum through the rest of the tournament?
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