Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has explained the reason behind Austin Odhiambo’s exclusion in the CHAN 2024 quarter-final clash against Madagascar, which Kenya lost in a heartbreaking penalty shootout.
Kenya were eliminated after a 4-3 loss on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time. Alphonce Omija had given the Harambee Stars the lead early in the second half, before a controversial disallowed goal from Ryan Ogam denied them the chance to extend their advantage. Madagascar later equalised from the penalty spot and held firm defensively to force the match into extra-time and spot kicks.
Many fans and analysts were left questioning why playmaker Austin Odhiambo, known for his creativity and ability to unlock tight defences, was not introduced at any point in the match. McCarthy addressed the issue, stressing that the decision was purely tactical.
According to the coach, the midfield selection was made to provide balance between attack and defence. He explained that Marvin Nabwire, who has been excelling in a more advanced role for his club, and Alpha Onyango, also attack-minded, were deployed alongside Manzur Okwaro, who sat deeper to protect the defence. McCarthy maintained that this structure was designed to dominate midfield exchanges and keep control of the game.
The coach insisted that the team created enough chances to win and that the absence of Odhiambo was not the decisive factor in the result. He highlighted the work rate and commitment shown by the players on the pitch, acknowledging that while Kenya had opportunities to kill off the game, poor decision-making in the final third proved costly.
Despite the disappointment of elimination, McCarthy expressed pride in his squad’s performance and resilience throughout the tournament. The Harambee Stars reached the quarter-finals in their debut CHAN campaign, a run that boosted confidence and belief among players and fans alike.
Attention now turns to upcoming World Cup qualifiers against The Gambia and Seychelles. McCarthy will be keen to build on the positives from CHAN while addressing shortcomings in execution and tactical flexibility. Whether Odhiambo plays a more central role in those matches will remain a key talking point among supporters eager to see Kenya reach the next level.
