CHAN 2024: 6 battles that will determine Kenya vs Angola's crucial clash
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Reading Time: 4min | Thu. 07.08.25. | 10:38
Mozzart Sport looks at some that are likely to determine the winner
Six battle areas are likely to determine victory when the Kenya men's national football team, Harambee Stars, face the Sable Antelopes of Angola in what is the second match for both teams in the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
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The highly anticipated match is set to be played on Thursday, 7 August at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani from 1900 hrs, under the floodlights.
Kenya began its campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in a match played on Sunday, 3 August, while Angola suffered a 2-0 defeat over African giants Morocco.
The match is so crucial for both teams as they are eyeing wins that would significantly boost their chances of progressing to the quarter finals and will therefore see battles across the pitch, but Mozzart Sport looks at some that are likely to determine the winner.
Byrne Omondi vs Neblu
As early as the championship is, it has been evident that goalkeepers play a crucial role in the outcome of matches, either through their saves or mistakes.
Kenya's Byrne Omondi proved to be 'Mr. Reliable' in the team's first match; made good saves, comfortably collected crosses and had a good command of his backline and was rewarded with a clean sheet.
Angola’s Neblu, on the other hand, had a decent game and could largely do nothing to stop both goals. However, he will be required to lead his team from the back to keep a clean sheet if they are to beat Kenya.
All in all, both custodians will be keen to help their teams, and the goalkeeping department is one of the areas where the match will be won.
Daniel Sakari vs Gogoro
Angola prefers to play possession-based football and employs a high press to defend and win the ball high up the pitch. They are equally dangerous on the wings with pacy offensive players.
It therefore puts the right flank as one of the areas where the match will be won, with the battle between Kenya's Daniel Sakari and Gogoro key to the match’s outcome.
Sakari started the match against DRC rather shaky and lost his marker several times but grew into the game. He will be required to be on from the first whistle against Gogoro if he is to win that battle.
Alphonce Omija vs Joaquim Pacencia
Kenya is largely expected to be on the back foot in the match, with Angola expected to have the lion's share of possession.
Alphonce Omija, who excellently marshalled the Kenyan defense against DRC, will once again be called upon to be at his best to stop the Angolan attackers and in particular the experienced Joaquim Pacencia, who is expected to lead the line.
Pacencia, on the other hand, will be trying to help Angola to at least score their first goal of the tournament and if possible, get their maiden win.
Austin Odhiambo vs Alem
Kenya will once again rely on Gor Mahia star Austin Odhiambo for creativity and to create chances for his team to score.
Odhiambo was a thorn in the flesh of DRC, and Angola must keep an eye on him if they are to get something out of the game.
The former AFC Leopards midfielder revealed that he understands that the team depends on him for creativity, and therefore, his battle with Interclube’s Alem at the pivot of Angola's midfield will determine the match winner.
Ryan Ogam vs Vidinho
With coach Benni McCarthy confirming that striker Masoud Juma will be out of the Angola clash, Tusker's Ryan Ogam will be expected to lead Kenya's hunt for goals.
Ogam, who is yet to rediscover his scoring boots since returning from injury, will have to shoulder the burden and be at his best on Thursday night.
Vidinho, on the other hand, will be keen to redeem himself after failing to stop Morocco from scoring, making their battle a key area where the match will be won or lost.
McCarthy vs Pedro Gonçalves
In the end, the biggest battle of the night will happen in the dugout where Kenya's Benni McCarthy will face off with Angola's Pedro Gonçalves.
While McCarthy is barely six months into his role, Gonclaves had been with the Angolan national team for a decade and led the team to various major tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
McCarthy got his tactics right against DRC and proved his tactical fluidity throughout the match, while Gonçalves dominated Morocco but was on the losing end.
In his pre-match press conference, McCarthy admitted that Kenya will have a long night and must be prepared to suffer, while Goncalves said that the approach will be as it was against Morocco.
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