Bandari goalkeeper Bryne Omondi has endured a long and challenging journey to become one of the standout figures in Kenya’s CHAN 2024 campaign. His man-of-the-match performance in Harambee Stars’ 1-0 win over Morocco was the culmination of years of resilience, patience, and hard work.
Omondi’s career path mirrors that of other late-blooming goalkeepers, having spent years as an understudy to some of Kenya’s most experienced shot-stoppers. Often struggling to make even the bench, he took those years as an opportunity to learn from veterans like Duncan Ochieng’ and Patrick Matasi. With goalkeepers often playing well into their late thirties, he kept faith that his time would come.
After completing high school at Manguo in Limuru, Omondi joined Tusker in 2015 before loan spells at Agrochemical and later a permanent move to Posta Rangers. In 2021, a loan to Mathare United gave him the regular playing time he craved, showcasing his ball control — a skill he developed from his days playing midfield in school.
A move to KCB in 2022 presented a new challenge: displacing established goalkeeper Gabriel Andika. Through determination, he became first choice, keeping 13 clean sheets and helping KCB achieve the best defensive record in the league. His impressive performances earned him a transfer to Bandari, where he continued to shine and is now close to joining record champions Gor Mahia.
One of Omondi’s key improvements has been his communication on the pitch. Initially a quiet presence, he learned from senior keepers the importance of organising the defence and building trust with outfield players.
His national team journey began in 2023 during the Mauritius Four Nations Tournament, but an injury against Russia later that year stalled his progress. By the time CHAN 2024 approached, doubts lingered over his fitness. Through persistence, he forced his way into the starting lineup, keeping two clean sheets and conceding just once as Kenya closed in on their first-ever CHAN quarterfinal berth.
For Omondi, representing Kenya is a dream, but his ambitions go further. He hopes his CHAN performances will open doors abroad, pushing himself to become a better player and inspire others facing setbacks. His rise is a testament to patience, self-belief, and seizing the moment when it finally arrives.
