Kenya’s Harambee Stars held firm against late pressure from DR Congo to secure a 1-0 victory in their opening Group A match of the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.
The game began with intense pressure from DR Congo, who appeared to take an early lead when forward Jephté Kitambala Bola found the net just five minutes in. However, the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR check by South African referee Jelly Alfred Chavani and his assistant.
The disallowed goal energized Kenya, buoyed by a packed home crowd. Austin Odhiambo came close to scoring when he cut in from the right and unleashed a right-footed shot, but DR Congo keeper Brudel Efonge Liyongo made a crucial save.
In the 24th minute, Kenya had another chance when Odhiambo set up Daniel Sakari, but Sakari lost control, allowing Liyongo to intervene.
The breakthrough finally came just before halftime. In the 45th minute, Odhiambo received a pass from Masoud Juma, skillfully dribbled past two defenders, and calmly slotted the ball past the outstretched goalkeeper.
Kenya went into the break with a slender 1-0 lead, despite DR Congo’s early dominance.
As the second half progressed, DR Congo intensified their attacks, forcing Kenya coach McCarthy to make a double substitution in the 58th minute, bringing on Boniface Muchiri and Marvin Omondi for Masoud Juma and Okwaro to shore up the defense.
