Austine Odhiambo has been playing like a man on a mission not just to make history for Kenya, but also change his life forever.
Austine Odhiambo has emerged as the man carrying Kenya’s attacking hopes at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
The Gor Mahia attacker has reminded people why he was crowned the FKF Premier League MVP in 2023/2024, as he has scored both of the Harambee Stars’ goals in the tournament so far, netting the winner against DR Congo and finding the back of the net again in the 1-1 draw with Angola at Kasarani Stadium.
His form has been crucial in helping Kenya collect four points from their first two Group A matches, leaving them within touching distance of a place in the knockout stages.
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Kenyans fans were the driving force as Harambee Stars battled Angola in CHAN 2024, with VAR drama capping a tense night.
‘It’s a Privilege, But It Comes With Pressure’
Speaking after the stalemate with Angola, Odhiambo admitted he relishes the responsibility — but is also aware of the weight that comes with it.
“It’s a privilege. I feel happy about it, and we’re looking forward to winning the next game and progressing to the next level,” he told the media. “You can’t let the fans down. With so much support behind you, you have to play well for them.”
The 25-year-old was candid about Kenya’s performance, admitting they struggled to impose themselves early in the match.
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A tactical look on how Harambee Stars battled adversity against Angola to keep their CHAN 2024 quarterfinal hopes firmly alive.
“In the first half, before we got the red card, we didn’t really stick to the coach’s tactics. They were passing through us too easily, but as the game went on, we adjusted and handled the pressure better,” he noted.
Golden Boot Talk on Hold
When asked about chasing the tournament’s Golden Boot, Odhiambo was quick to downplay personal accolades.
“It’s still too early. Right now, we’re approaching every game as a team, focusing on qualifying for the next round. My priority is the team’s results, not individual awards,” he said.
Kenya’s next assignment is a mouth-watering clash with Morocco, followed by a group finale against Zambia. Odhiambo believes there is still more to come from both himself and the team.
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Manzur Okwaro – a center back – was subjected to a defensive midfield role by Benni McCarthy in Harambee Stars’ opening CHAN 2024 game as they beat DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium.
“I need to score more goals because if you score, the team wins,” he said. “Today I could have scored two, and we could have taken the win. So for me, it’s about finishing chances and helping the team secure victories.”
With his scoring touch intact and confidence high, Austine Odhiambo will be central to Kenya’s hopes of making it out of Group A and perhaps, going even further.
