Harambee Stars opened its maiden CHAN campaign in style after defeating two-time winners DR Congo 1-0, in a Group A match played on Sunday evening at the Moi International Sports Kasarani Centre.
Austin Odhiambo’s goal in the last minute of the extra time in the 1st half was enough to earn Kenya three points.
The Leopards, who won the title in 2009 and 2016, started the match brightly with Japhte Kitambala’s opening goal on the 5th being overturned by the VAR for a foul in the build.
DRC resumed the 2nd stanza with a clear target of restoring parity, with Stars shot stoppers being forced to pull several saves to earn Kenya the crucial victory.
President William Ruto led several senior government officials in supporting Stars in an almost full-capacity stadium crowd.
Kenya will return to Kasarani this Thursday against the Palancas Negras of Angola in the 7pm kick off before taking on two-time champions Morocco next Sunday, 10th August, from 3pm.
Ruto had promised a hefty reward of Ksh 1 million per player in each win at CHAN.
