Harambee Stars kicked off their CHAN 2024 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over DR Congo at a packed Kasarani Stadium, thanks to a first-half stoppage-time goal from midfielder Austine Odhiambo.

The visitors started brightly, dominating the early exchanges and even having a goal ruled out inside the first 15 minutes. Kenya gradually found their footing, with captain Abud Omar going close from a dangerous free-kick just outside the box.

In the 26th minute, Masud Juma had a golden opportunity to put the hosts ahead after latching onto a precise through ball from Abud, but DR Congo goalkeeper Brudel Efonge reacted quickly to deny the effort.

Kenya finally broke the deadlock in the sixth minute of added time at the end of the first half. Odhiambo weaved past two defenders before calmly slotting past the advancing Efonge to send the home fans into celebration.

The second half saw both teams make several changes, with Kenya introducing Boniface Muchiri and Marvin Nabwire in the 66th minute, followed by a triple substitution in the 77th minute that brought on Chris Erambo, Mike Kibwage, and Ben Stanley.

DR Congo nearly equalised in the 75th minute when Horso Muaku found himself through on goal, only to blast his effort wide with Kenyan goalkeeper Byrne Omondi at his mercy.

Despite seven minutes of added time and sustained pressure from the visitors, Harambee Stars held firm to secure all three points. Alpha Onyango’s performance in midfield earned him the Man of the Match accolade.

Speaking after the game, Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy expressed his pride in the team.

“I’m proud of my team—many of them were stepping onto such a big stage for the first time. Beating one of the tournament favourites is massive for us. We were nervous at the start, but once the boys settled, they showed real bravery,” he said.

“Austine Odhiambo showed great composure and skill to give us the lead just before the break. That was the perfect time to score – just when they thought we’d head in level.”

McCarthy also addressed the tactical decision to deploy centre-back Manzur Suleiman in a defensive midfield role.

“I initially considered playing him at left-back based on what I saw in our friendlies, but after analysing his attributes, I felt he was a perfect fit in midfield. He’s young, energetic, and brave -just what we needed to disrupt DR Congo’s game plan. He was one of our best players today, no doubt.”

The coach further explained how Manzur’s presence allowed his more attack-minded midfielders to thrive.

“Alpha Onyango is very comfortable on the ball and can play clean, progressive passes. Austine is creative and can score. Having Manzur do the dirty work behind them was key. He did one hell of a job protecting our back four—that’s exactly what we needed.”

Kenya now turns its attention to their next Group A match against Angola on Thursday.