CHAN 2024: Harambee Stars hero reveals areas of focus ahead of Angola clash
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 05.08.25. | 07:32
Despite Stars kicking off the tournament with a win, Odhiambo believes that there is much to be worked on before the subsequent game against Angola
On-song midfielder Austine Odhiambo has identified game and ball management as key areas for improvement ahead of Harambee Stars’ crucial Group A showdown against Angola on Thursday, 7 August.
Odhiambo, who netted the decisive goal in Kenya’s 1-0 triumph over tournament favourites DR Congo, acknowledged the Leopards' dominance during large spells of the match.
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He is, however, glad that he converted the chance that marked Kenya's debut at the tournament with a win.
"The game was tough; honestly, DR Congo were the better side but did not use their chances. We got ours and made good use of it. We need to improve on our game and ball management because we were losing a lot of balls,” said the Gor Mahia man in an interview with Standard Digital.
In the match, the two-time CHAN champions started on the front foot and thought they had taken an early lead in the fifth minute through Jephte Kitambala.
However, South African referee Jelly Chavani disallowed the goal after a VAR review exposed a foul on Abud Omar in the build-up.
DR Congo continued to press, coming close in the 35th minute when towering forward Kaluo Makonzi sent a close-range header just wide, with Kenyan keeper Bryne Omondi caught off his line.
The pressure persisted after the break, with substitutes Josue Kazema and Helton Kayembe testing the Kenyan backline, only to be denied by brave defensive interventions and composed goalkeeping.
Omondi, in particular, stood tall in goal, making crucial saves, including a bold claim from a dangerous corner in the 62nd minute after a loose clearance by Alphonce Omija and a confident collection of Kayembe’s 25-yard strike earlier in the half.
Despite DR Congo's dominance, it was Kenya who struck the decisive blow. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Odhiambo showcased composure and clinical finishing.
After skipping past a Congo defender off David Sakwa's delivery, he calmly slotted past Congolese goalkeeper Brudel Efonge to register what would be the match-winner and Kenya’s first-ever CHAN goal.
With three points secured, Kenya now sits joint-top of Group A alongside Morocco, though the North Africans lead on goal difference following their 2-0 win over Angola.
Odhiambo, who previously turned out for AFC Leopards before joining Gor Mahia, believes his goal can inspire the team to even greater heights.
"I am happy with the goal and the win. It motivates me to fight even harder for the team and the country. Our dream is to go all the way and win the title. We know it’s a big challenge, but we are ready to give our best,” he added.
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