Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars midfielder Austin Odhiambo stands ready to rise to the challenge in the upcoming TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, set to ignite passions starting 2nd August 2025, in East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda).
With a spirit of optimism, Odhiambo believes his team is fully prepared for this crucial test. He expresses joy in the selection process, noting the strong bond he shares with many teammates from the local league.
“I’m lucky that most of the midfielders called up for the national team are players I have played alongside in the league. This connection helps with our teamwork, and I feel that our chemistry is strong,” he said during an interview at a training session held at the newly renovated Nyayo National Stadium.
Recognizing the formidable challenges ahead, Odhiambo is focused on the path before them. Their group, often deemed the “group of death,” includes powerhouse teams such as Morocco, Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Zambia. While he acknowledges the pressure to perform, he embraces it confidently, drawing from his experiences at Gor Mahia.
“There is pressure on me and every attacker because, for the team to win, we must score goals. This pressure is not new to me; playing for Gor Mahia comes with a lot of expectations from our fans. I’m accustomed to that pressure, and I will do my best,” he added.
Harambee Stars find themselves in Group A, alongside Morocco, DRC, Angola, and Zambia—an opportunity to prove their mettle on a grand stage. Odhiambo holds firm in his belief that the team can triumph.
“As a player, my goal is to help the national team win the cup, especially since the tournament is taking place on our home soil. It’s a dream for every Kenyan to lift that trophy,” he concluded.
As Kenya prepares for its opening match against the Democratic Republic of the Congo on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, at 3:00 PM, and following it with Morocco versus Angola at Nyayo National Stadium, the spirit of hope and determination radiates from every member of the team.