CHAN: McCarthy optimistic Kenya will go far after DR Congo victory

Kenya national team head coach Benni McCarthy has predicted that Harambee Stars will go far in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) only if they play like they did in their Group A 1-0 win against DR Congo at a sold-out Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.

Harambee Stars marked their long-awaited debut at CHAN with a statement win over two-time champions the Leopards after Austin Odhiambo’s first-half strike proved decisive in the tightly-contested opener.

Kenya’s breakthrough came just before the break when Odhiambo latched onto a pass from David Sakwa in the 45+2 minute, coolly guiding a left-footed shot into the bottom corner beyond Brudel Efonge.

“We’ve made a good start, but we have to stay grounded. There are tough games ahead. But if the boys keep playing like this, we can go far,” the South African legend told reporters after the game.

“I’m proud of my team—many of them were stepping onto such a big stage for the first time. Beating one of the tournament favourites is massive for us,” added McCarthy. “We were nervous at the start, but once the boys settled, they showed real bravery.”

Kenya will next come up against Angola on Thursday, while DR Congo will seek redemption against Morocco, who defeated Angola 2-0 in the other Group A fixture at Nyayo Stadium.