The Harambee Stars kept their CHAN 2024 quarterfinal hopes alive with a spirited 1-1 draw against Angola in a tense Group A encounter. Playing in front of a packed Kasarani Stadium, the Kenyan side overcame the adversity of an early red card and dangerous counter-attacks to secure a vital point.
3. Surviving an Early Red Card
The match took a dramatic turn in the 21st minute when midfielder Marvin Nabwire was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge. Losing such a key player early against a strong and physical Angolan team could have spelled disaster. The midfield shape was disrupted, forcing a quick tactical reshuffle. Instead of collapsing, the Harambee Stars tightened their defensive lines, funnelling Angola’s attacks wide and reducing their central threat. Every misplaced pass and missed tackle felt like a potential disaster, yet the backline held firm. This resilience laid the foundation for the team’s eventual hard-fought draw.
2. Taking Risks on the Counterattack
Despite being a man down, Kenya refused to sit back entirely. Their strategy involved quick and aggressive counterattacks, designed to relieve pressure and create scoring chances. Austine Odhiambo’s 12th-minute penalty had already secured the equalizer, but even after Nabwire’s dismissal, the team continued to commit men forward. This attacking intent came with high risk—losing possession left acres of space for Angola to exploit. On one occasion, the gamble nearly backfired when Angola found the net late on, only for VAR to intervene. Still, these counterattacks prevented Angola from dominating possession entirely and forced their defence to remain alert.
1. VAR Intervention and Last-Ditch Defending
The defining moment came late in the game when Angola thought they had scored the winner. Celebrations were cut short after VAR ruled the goal out for offside, citing interference from an attacker in an illegal position. This decision, combined with heroic last-ditch defending, kept Kenya’s campaign alive. The backline and goalkeeper combined for crucial blocks, interceptions, and reflex saves, showing the grit needed to survive a relentless onslaught.
In the end, it was a mix of tactical discipline, calculated risk-taking, and a stroke of VAR fortune that secured the point. With this result, the Harambee Stars remain firmly in the hunt for a CHAN 2024 quarterfinal spot, proving that determination can overcome the toughest of circumstances.
