Odhiambo the hero as Harambee Stars edge Congo DR in CHAN opener

The win not only meant crucial three points for the Benni McCarthy coached-side, but ensured the players earn Ksh. 1 million each as promised by President William Ruto, who watched the match at the newly refurbished MISC Kasarani.

On Saturday, Ruto promised the team Ksh. 1 million (each player) for every win in the tournament. After the match, the president went straight to the dressing room to congratulate Harambee Stars. 

McCarthy trusted Bryne Odhiambo between the sticks, guarded by a back-four composed of captain Aboud Omar (LB), Daniel Sakari (RB), Alphonse Omija and Sylvestre Owino as centre-backs.

The South African coach handed teenager Manzur Okwaro a defensive midfield role, just behind Gor Mahia's Alpha Onyango and Austin, who completed the midfield matrix in the starting 11.

On the right wing was Tusker’s Ryan Ogam, while on the left channel, played Bandari’s Wekesa. 

New Migori Youth striker Masoud Juma led the attack as the centre-forward. 

‎Kenya tried to assert dominance early but struggled to find the breakthrough until Odhiambo’s crucial moment just before halftime.

‎Odhiambo’s decisive strike came after a strong run of play. Following a brilliant tackle and interception, he surged into the box and clinically fired past Congolese keeper Brudel Liyongo, finishing off a sharp assist from David Sakwa. 

‎The stadium erupted in celebration, with Kenyan fans jubilant over the history-making moment.

‎Earlier, DR Congo thought they had taken the lead through Jephete Bola, only for South African referee Jelly Chavani to consult VAR and disallow the goal due to a foul in the buildup on Kenyan captain Omar. 

‎That decision proved pivotal in maintaining parity and gave Harambee Stars the belief they needed.

‎The first half saw Harambee Stars create several chances, with Sakwa and Ogam particularly dangerous down the flanks. 

‎Juma came closest to scoring before the breakthrough, forcing a superb save from Liyongo after a well-worked move involving Odhiambo and Omar.

‎In the second half, DR Congo made tactical changes, introducing Helton Kayembe and Josou Kazema to inject fresh energy. The Leopards pushed forward in search of an equalizer, but Kenya’s defense, led by short stopper Bryne Omondi and Omija, remained solid under pressure.

‎Coach Benni McCarthy was forced into substitutions after Manzur picked up an injury, bringing on Boniface Muchiri and Marvin Nabwire. 

‎Despite DR Congo’s attacking pressure, Kenya held their ground through seven tense minutes of stoppage time.

With this win, Harambee Stars now hope to build their momentum and carry the hopes of an entire nation as CHAN 2024 continues.

In the second group A match playerd at the Nyayo National Stadium later Sunday, Morocco sunk Angola 2-0 to shoot to the top of the pool.

Kenya's next match will be on Thursday against Angola at the MISC Kasarani.