The decisive goal came just before halftime when Gor Mahia's creative playmaker Austin Odhiambo danced through the Congolese defence and calmly slotted a left-footed shot into the bottom corner in the 45+2 minute. The lively crowd erupted as Kenya took the lead against one of Africa's most experienced sides.
Odhiambo's strike followed a pass from David Sakwa, showcasing Kenya's attacking flair and composure on their debut in this continental tournament reserved exclusively for home-based players.
Despite DR Congo controlling early possession, Kenya grew in confidence and maintained a disciplined defensive structure that frustrated the visitors throughout the match.
In the second half, DR Congo increased their pressure, with players like Jonathan Mokonzi and Kitambala threatening with headers, and Heltone Kayembe forcing a notable save from Kenya's goalkeeper Byrne Omondi. However, the solid defence, marshalled by Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija, stood firm to repel multiple late corners and protect the slim lead.
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy, in his first major tournament at the helm, used tactical substitutions, bringing on Mike Kibwage and Marvin Nabwire in the final quarter to strengthen the midfield and close out the win.
The victory marks a proud start for Kenya, who are co-hosting the CHAN tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania for the first time. The team will now face Angola on Thursday in what promises to be another tough Group A encounter, while DR Congo will look to recover against Morocco.
Adding to the excitement, Kenyan President William Ruto attended the match alongside former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, a passionate sports enthusiast. The day before, President Ruto pledged 600 million shillings (approximately Frw 6.7 billion ) in bonuses if the Harambee Stars clinch the CHAN title.
The president also promised incremental rewards for reaching the quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final, alongside match-win bonuses of Frw 10 million per player.
The CHAN 2024 tournament began on Saturday, August 2, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where the Taifa Stars secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso, igniting the East African region's enthusiasm for the championship.
Rwanda's Amavubi failed to qualify for the tournament. In the qualifiers, they were eliminated after a 4-4 aggregate draw against South Sudan, losing on the away goals rule. This is the second consecutive time they've missed out on the CHAN tournament.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/sports/article/kenya-triumphs-over-dr-congo-in-chan-opener
