Kenyan football fans were overjoyed on Sunday night after Harambee Stars secured a dream start to their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign with a 1-0 victory over tournament heavyweights DR Congo at a packed Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
From the final whistle, the excitement spread across the country and onto social media, where proud Kenyans praised coach Benni McCarthy and his players for the brave and tactical performance.
“Congrats Harambee Stars and keep up the great team spirit, outstanding football,” posted Chris Diaz on X. “We are very proud of the win today. Looking forward to superb, world-class football from all the national teams in the weeks ahead.”
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Another fan, Njanjo Andrew, wrote; “Special recognition to Austine Odhiambo for his remarkable contribution on the field. Your passion and dedication were evident in the match.”
Odhiambo, who scored the winning goal just before half-time, was the hero of the night. The Gor Mahia midfielder struck with confidence after being set up by a quick attacking move, giving Kenya their first-ever goal in the Chan tournament.
But it was Alpha Onyango who walked away with the Man of the Match award. His control in midfield, calm passing, and smart defensive work gave Kenya balance throughout the 90 minutes.
Speaking after the game, head coach McCarthy was full of praise for his young 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,” McCarthy said. “We were nervous at the start, but once the boys settled, they showed real bravery.”
A key moment in the game was McCarthy’s surprise decision to play centre-back Manzur Suleiman in a defensive midfield role. The move worked perfectly, as Suleiman’s energy and tackles broke up DR Congo’s play and helped Kenya keep control.
“Alpha is very comfortable on the ball and Austine is creative. Manzur gave them freedom to push forward,” said McCarthy.
With the win, Kenya sit second in Group A with three points, level with Morocco, who lead on goal difference after a 2-0 win over Angola. DR Congo and Zambia are yet to register a point.
Kenya will face Angola next, also on Thursday, in what fans are calling for another must-win show. The victory over DR Congo has raised hopes of progressing far in the tournament, and the country is now fully behind the team.
“We’ve made a good start, but we have to stay grounded,” McCarthy warned. “There are tough games ahead. But if the boys keep playing like this, we can go far.”
For now, though, Kenyan fans are dreaming—and demanding more.