Kenya announced their arrival on the continental stage with a landmark 1-0 win over two-time champions DR Congo in their opening match at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024.
The Group A clash took place at a packed Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi, where a jubilant home crowd witnessed a performance full of passion and discipline.
Playing in their first-ever CHAN finals, Kenya overcame a nervy start to edge the tournament giants, with Austin Odhiambo netting the decisive goal just before halftime.
His composed finish in first-half stoppage time capped off a swift counterattack started by David Sakwa, igniting wild celebrations among the 60,000 fans in attendance.
The CHAN tournament, which exclusively features players from domestic leagues, served as the perfect stage for Kenya’s local stars to shine and they rose to the occasion.
DR Congo initially thought they had taken an early lead when Jephté Kitambala found the back of the net in the 5th minute, but his goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.
The visitors dominated possession early on, but Kenya gradually settled into the game, fueled by vocal support from the stands.
Odhiambo’s 45+2 minute strike gave Kenya a crucial lead and marked a symbolic moment for the host nation, signaling a possible shift in African football’s traditional powerhouses.
In the second half, DR Congo ramped up the pressure in search of an equaliser. The Congolese threatened from set-pieces, with Jonathan Mokonzi and Kitambala going close with headers, but Kenya’s backline stood tall.
Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi was outstanding, notably denying Heltone Kayembe’s long-range effort in the 59th minute with a fingertip save. Defenders Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija were also rock-solid, repelling wave after wave of attacks in the final stretch.
Kenyan head coach Benni McCarthy made key tactical changes late in the game, bringing on Mike Kibwage and Marvin Nabwire to solidify the midfield and help see out the win.
Despite enduring seven tense minutes of stoppage time, Kenya held on for a famous victory—their first-ever in CHAN history.
They now become only the third debutant nation to win their opening match at the tournament.
The result extends DR Congo’s winless run in CHAN to five matches, and they now face an uphill task in the group, with a crucial fixture against Morocco looming.
Meanwhile, Kenya, buoyed by their dream start, will look to continue their momentum when they take on Angola on Thursday.
CHAN 2024: Kenya Stun Dr Congo In Historic CHAN Debut Victory
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