The East African nation made their debut in the tournament exclusively for players participating in their local leagues, achieving a hard-fought 1-0 victory against two-time champions DR Congo at a packed Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.
Odhiambo, who plays locally for the record Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia, secured the closely contested match with a brilliantly executed goal in the 45th minute, marking Harambee Stars' first-ever CHAN victory and goal in the tournament's history.
Kenya’s breakthrough occurred just before halftime when Odhiambo received a pass from David Sakwa in the 45+2 minute and skillfully directed a left-footed shot into the bottom corner past Brudel Efonge.
However, as the second half began, DR Congo appeared stronger, pinning Harambee Stars in their half, prompting Kenyan head coach Benni McCarthy to make a double substitution - Boniface Muchiri and Marvin Omondi were brought in for striker Masoud Juma and Suleiman Okwaro.
Kenya needs to improve on managing the ball
The Leopards, who failed to score in the 2022 edition, dominated set-pieces and came close with headers from Jonathan Mokonzi and Jephte Kitambala, but Kenya’s defense stood firm.
Once again, Kenya goalkeeper Byrne Omondi made a vital save, deflecting Heltone Kayembe’s powerful shot over the bar, while defenders Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija fended off a late flurry of Congolese corners.
“We really need to improve significantly,” Odhiambo admitted to Flashscore. “As I mentioned, DR Congo was the superior team, so we truly must enhance our game.”
When asked which areas Kenya needs to focus on for improvement, Odhiambo stated: “We need to examine many aspects, but most importantly, we must especially improve in how we manage the ball because we lost possession too often.
“To succeed in the next match, we absolutely must elevate our performance.”
Reflecting on scoring the goal that became Kenya's first-ever in the CHAN and ultimately the winning goal, Odhiambo shared: “It feels fantastic, but the most important thing is that we achieved it as a team; it was a team effort. The fans were amazing; so far, we are very happy they supported us until the end, and we delivered a positive result.”
Kenya's defense needs to stabilize from the start
Meanwhile, former Gor Mahia coach Bob Oyuginoted that Harambee Stars appeared shaky at the game's onset, which he cautioned they must avoid in their upcoming match.
“It was commendable for our boys to win their first game, but they still need to refine both their defensive and offensive strategies,” Oyugi told Flashscore. “Kenya requires a sharp attacking line, with frequent offensive plays, along with supportive midfield coverage.
“It will be easier for us to first observe all the matches, then a proper diagnosis can be made. The entire team showed determination to win the first match; they just need to improve further, being aware that the opponents analyzed their play.”
Oyugi concluded: “The coach (McCarthy) is constructing a new team. Both our fullbacks must remain vigilant, and the midfielders should not leave the defense exposed to the opponents.”
Kenya will next face Angola on Thursday, while DR Congo will take on Zambia.
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