Harambee Stars Player Ratings vs Angola: Austin Odhiambo Impresses as 10-Man Kenya Hold Firm in CHAN 2024 Group A

Discover how ten-man Harambee Stars battled Angola to a 1-1 draw, with Odhiambo starring and Nabwire seeing red.

Ten-man Harambee Stars on Thursday evening put up a spirited fight to draw 1-1 with Angola in their second Group A match of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) at the Kasarani Stadium.

After going a goal down and losing midfielder Marvin Nabwire to a first-half red card, the hosts showed incredible heart and defensive discipline to earn a valuable point, with Austin Odhiambo converting a crucial penalty.

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Here are the player ratings for the encounter:

Bryne Odhiambo – 7/10

The former KCB goalkeeper had a nervy start but quickly grew into the game, making six vital saves to keep Kenya within touching distance. His most impressive moment came in the opening part of second stanza when a sharp Angola counter was sniffed out by his quick reaction and confident clearance.

Despite the pressure of being a man down, Bryne maintained composure and made smart decisions, especially in set-piece situations. He communicated well with his backline and commanded his box with increasing confidence as the match wore on.

He may not have had a clean sheet, but without his second-half heroics, Harambee Stars could easily have walked away empty-handed. A performance to build on in the next outing.

Daniel Sakari – 6/10

A much more composed performance compared to his opening game, Sakari handled the threat of Devi Vieira with sharp positioning and tactical awareness. He registered two successful tackles and interceptions to silence Angola’s left flank.

Going forward, his influence was minimal, largely due to Kenya’s numerical disadvantage and the need to sit deep. Nonetheless, he provided a reliable outlet when transitioning from defence.

Sakari’s experience and growing confidence were evident in how he dealt with high-pressure moments. He was substituted late on, but his shift was an important contribution to the team’s gritty display.

Alphonce Omija – 7/10

The Gor Mahia defender played a crucial role in organizing the defence. He was proactive in clearing danger, recording seven clearances, and was aggressive in his aerial duels, winning two of four contests.

Omija also offered a surprising creative spark from the back, using his long balls to kickstart counters, especially after the red card shifted the game’s momentum. He displayed maturity beyond his years.

His partnership with Sylvester Owino was one of the match’s standout features. Together, they kept Angola’s forwards frustrated and without any easy chances on goal.

Sylvester Owino – 6/10

Owino was calm under pressure, playing a key role in keeping the backline compact. He made crucial blocks late in the second half and consistently disrupted Angola’s rhythm with intelligent positioning.

His willingness to push the defensive line higher during transitions showed his leadership and tactical understanding. He was also close to scoring from a corner, just missing the near post.

Though not flashy, Owino’s consistency and work rate were vital to surviving the final stretch, especially when Angola pushed hard for a winner.

Aboud Omar – 5/10

Omar took some time to settle into the match and was shaky in the opening exchanges. However, after the red card, he buckled down and focused on his defensive duties with greater urgency.

His experience showed in the way he supported the center-backs and helped cover wide areas. He didn’t venture forward much but offered much-needed balance.

In a game where grit was more valuable than flair, Omar played his role, helping steady the defence in a crucial period of the match.

Edward Ondimo – 6/10

Ondimo looked isolated and out of rhythm early on, particularly after Nabwire’s dismissal left him without proper midfield support. Despite that, he soldiered on and competed fiercely in aerial duels.

He won six of 12 headers and did his best to link up with Odhiambo when chances came. However, his influence in attack was limited due to the circumstances.

He was eventually forced off due to injury in the 79th minute after an energetic but physically demanding display.

Manzur Okwaro – 5/10

The 19-year-old once again impressed with his energy and fearlessness. He buzzed around midfield, pressing Angola’s playmakers and trying to disrupt their passing rhythm.

His passing range was positive, with several forward balls helping relieve pressure on Kenya’s defence. His decision-making continues to improve.

While he lacked a standout moment, his work rate and tenacity earned him praise. A solid showing in tough conditions.

Marvin Nabwire – 3/10

Nabwire had shown promise early in midfield but received a straight red card midway through the first half for a professional foul as the last man.

His dismissal shifted the entire dynamic of the match and forced Kenya to sit deep. While it was a necessary foul to prevent a goal, it left his teammates with a mountain to climb.

His early energy and pressing hinted at a positive performance, but unfortunately, his night ended prematurely.

Bonface Muchiri – 6/10

In his 45-minute appearance, Muchiri was bright and combined well with Odhiambo, offering quick link-up play. However, he was often outmuscled and struggled with the physicality.

Defensively, his contribution was lacking, which may have prompted his substitution at halftime. Still, he showed creativity in flashes.

His chemistry with Odhiambo could be worth exploring in future matches if deployed in a freer role.

Alpha Onyango – 4/10

A disappointing outing from the Gor Mahia midfielder, who failed to make a significant impact on the game. He lost possession ten times and failed to register a single duel.

He seemed off the pace, perhaps overwhelmed by Angola’s pressing and Kenya’s tactical reshuffle. His passing lacked urgency and precision.

Withdrawn in the 63rd minute, Onyango will need to bounce back quickly to retain his place.

Austin Odhiambo – 8/10

Kenya’s standout player once again, Odhiambo showed calm under pressure by winning and converting the penalty that brought the match level.

He orchestrated counter-attacks with smart passing and controlled the tempo even while outnumbered. He won three of five duels and was a constant threat with the ball.

A reliable performer, Odhiambo continues to grow into a leadership role for the Stars. His consistency could be key in Kenya’s CHAN campaign.

SUBSTITUTES

Michael Kibwage – 5/10

Came in and added defensive stability late on, making a key clearance that denied Angola a scoring chance. Brought composure in the final ten minutes.

Chris Erambo – 4/10

Tried to control midfield after Onyango’s withdrawal but lacked time and influence as Kenya sat deeper.

Ryan Ogam – 3/10

Had just one forward contribution but worked tirelessly in defensive roles, linking up well with Ondimo when needed.

Ben Stanley Omondi – 3/10

Late introduction, little time to make an impact.

Kevin Otieno – N/A

Came on in the dying minutes, not enough time for rating.