- Edward Omondi made his debut during the Kenya vs Angola match in the CHAN 2024 Group A fixture on Thursday evening.
- Omondi admitted he was a bit nervous as it was his first time playing in a packed stadium and wearing the national team jersey.
- Despite being reduced to 10 men, Kenya managed to hold Angola to a 1-1 draw.
Harambee Stars attacker Edward “Ondimo” Omondi has revealed how the electrifying atmosphere at Kasarani Stadium impacted his performance during his debut in the Kenya vs Angola clash at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 Group A fixture on Thursday evening.
The former Sofapaka forward was included in Benni McCarthy’s starting eleven for the high-stakes encounter, where Kenya managed to secure a 1-1 draw despite playing with ten men for most of the match.
The Sable Antelopes had threatened to capitalize on the numerical advantage after Marvin Nabwire was sent off early, but Harambee Stars held firm.
Speaking to the press after the match, Ondimo expressed mixed emotions as he reflected on his first appearance for the national team.
It was a memorable debut for me though things did not unfold as we had anticipated. The early red card completely altered our game plan, forcing us to adopt a defensive strategy.
Nonetheless, we are grateful for the result and now shift our focus to the next challenge,” Omondi said.
Edward Omondi reflects on his Harambee Stars debut
The newly signed Kenya Police FC player admitted that making his debut was not an easy task, particularly because he had never played in front of such a massive, passionate crowd before.
The moment was made even more significant by the fact that it was his first time donning the national team jersey.
This was my first time playing in a packed stadium filled with so many supporters. I’m not used to that level of intensity, so naturally, I was a bit anxious.
Also, wearing the national jersey for the first time made it even more emotional. It was truly a remarkable moment for me,” he added.
Ondimo was one of three players called up as late replacements after Mohammed Bajaber, Swaleh Pamba, and Brian Musa were sidelined due to injuries.
He had been part of the provisional squad and was grateful for the opportunity. He also lauded coach Benni McCarthy for his unwavering support and guidance during training.
“The coach has really been encouraging throughout the training sessions. I’ve been pushing myself hard, and everything has been going smoothly,” Ondimo noted.
Having earned his national cap, Ondimo and his teammates are now turning their attention to their next fixture against Morocco on Sunday, August 10, at Kasarani Stadium.
They will be aiming for all three points to boost their chances of progressing to the knockout stage, despite the challenge posed by the formidable two-time champions.
CHAN 2024 – Harambee Stars fixtures (All matches at Kasarani Stadium)
Results
- Kenya 1-0 DR Congo – Sunday, August 3 | 3:00 PM
- Kenya goal scorer Austin Odhiambo
- Angola 1-1 Kenya – Thursday, August 7 | 7:00 PM
- Kenya goal scorer Austine Odhiambo
Upcoming fixtures
- Kenya vs Morocco – Sunday, August 10 | 3:00 PM
- Zambia vs Kenya – Sunday, August 17 | 3:00 PM