Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has praised the team for a fearless and tactically sound performance in their successful 2024 African Nations Championship debut.

Kenya pulled off a stunning 1–0 win over tournament heavyweights DR Congo in their first Group A fixture of the competition at a fairly packed Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Sunday, August 3, 2025.

Gor Mahia ace Austine Odhiambo scored the decisive goal in the extra time of the game’s first half, a goal that took the home side to the summit of Group A temporarily, after the youthful Kenyan side delivered a disciplined and spirited display.

“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,” McCarthy said in the post-match reaction.

“We were nervous at the start, but once the boys settled, they showed real bravery.”

A pivotal aspect of the win was McCarthy’s unexpected strategy to deploy centre-half Manzur Suleiman in a midfield role—an experiment that worked brilliantly against DR Congo’s attacking threat.

“I initially considered playing him at left-back based on what I saw in our friendlies,” McCarthy revealed.

“But after analysing his attributes, I felt he was a perfect fit in midfield. He’s young, energetic, and brave—just what we needed to disrupt DR Congo’s game plan. He was one of our best players today, no doubt.”

Suleiman’s shift into midfield brought defensive balance and allowed flair players Alpha Onyango and Austine Odhiambo to express themselves higher up the pitch.

“Alpha is very comfortable on the ball and can play clean, progressive passes. Austine is creative and can score. Having Manzur do the dirty work behind them was key,” McCarthy said.

“He did one hell of a job protecting our back four—that’s exactly what we needed.”

DR Congo fail to capitalise on chances

The Leopards had opportunities to change the narrative. An early goal was disallowed, and Horso Muaku squandered a golden chance late in the second half, sending his shot wide in a one-on-one situation.

Despite late pressure, goalkeeper Byrne Omondi remained composed, and Kenya’s defensive line held firm through seven tense minutes of added time.

While Odhiambo’s goal proved decisive, it was Alpha Onyango’s commanding presence in midfield that earned him the Man of the Match award. His composure, work rate, and pinpoint distribution were vital in nullifying DR Congo’s midfield threat.

McCarthy was quick to recognise Onyango’s efforts and the team’s tactical execution.

“The boys executed the plan. Alpha was excellent—he made the midfield tick, and that’s why we were able to hold out.”

After Sunday’s win, Kenya now sets its sights on their next opponent, Angola, scheduled for Thursday in the same group. It promises to be a tense battle after Angola lost their opening fixture of the campaign 2-0 to Morocco at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday evening.