Ten-man Kenya battled to a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Angola in their second Group A match of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Thursday night.
Austine Odhiambo’s early penalty and a spirited defensive display ensured the Harambee Stars remained unbeaten and top of the group with four points from two matches.
Angola made a strong start, taking the lead in the 7th minute through Jó Paciência, who finished a low shot after a quick exchange with Beni Jetour. Kenya responded almost immediately. Odhiambo earned a penalty following a VAR review for a foul by Mafuta, then stepped up to convert from the spot in the 12th minute – his second goal of the tournament.
The game changed in the 21st minute when midfielder Marvin Nabwire’s initial yellow card was upgraded to a red after VAR intervention, leaving Kenya with ten men for the remainder of the match.
Coach Benni McCarthy’s side adapted by defending deep, closing spaces, and relying on the safe hands of goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, who pulled off key saves to deny Aguinaldo Matias and Paciência. Kenya still threatened on the counter, with Chrispine Erambo going close and Sylvester Owino heading narrowly wide from a corner.
Angola thought they had won it in stoppage time when Kaporal found the net, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside.
At full-time, Kenya stayed top of Group A, ahead of Morocco and DR Congo, who both have three points. Angola sit bottom with one point and must beat DR Congo to stand a chance of advancing.
Kenya will face Morocco in their final group match on Sunday, knowing that any positive result will secure a historic quarter-final place.