Hosts Kenya began their 2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign with a confident 1-0 win over two-time Champions the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in Nairobi, on Sunday, 3 August. In front of a rapturous 60,000-strong crowd at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, Austin Odhiambo delivered the decisive blow in first-half stoppage time, converting a precise pass from David Sakwa, with a composed left-footed finish.
The match, which opened Group A, was tightly contested, with DRC initially appearing to strike in the 5th minute—only for Jephté Kitambala’s goal to be ruled out by VAR for offside. Despite mounting pressure in the second half, DRC were unable to find an equaliser. Kenya’s display marked a bold statement of intent in the tournament exclusively featuring domestic-based players. The Harambee Stars now prepare to face Angola on Thursday, while DRC will take on Morocco in their next group fixture.