CHAN2024: Captain Abud Omar lauds Nabwire despite red card
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Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 09.08.25. | 13:25
Initially shown a yellow card, the Kenya Police midfielder saw it upgraded to red after another VAR intervention
Harambee Stars captain Abud Omar has praised midfielder Marvin Nabwire for what he described as a selfless act that saved Kenya from defeat in their 1-1 draw with Angola at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
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On a tense Thursday night at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Stars played for more than 70 minutes with 10 men, yet held their nerve to frustrate the defending champions in front of a deafening crowd of 46,525.
The night began poorly for Benni McCarthy’s men. In the sixth minute, Angola’s Jó Paciência tapped in from close range after Beni Jetour’s cross found Kenya’s backline flat-footed.
Six minutes later, Kenya hit back when Austin Odhiambo converted from the spot after a VAR review confirmed Afonso Marques had clipped his ankles inside the box.
But just ten minutes later, drama returned.
A defensive lapse and a spill by goalkeeper Byrne Omondi gifted Alberto Adao a clear run on goal.
Nabwire, the last man, brought him down from behind to prevent a certain score.
Initially shown a yellow card, the Kenya Police midfielder saw it upgraded to red after another VAR intervention. This decision drew loud protests from the home crowd, many of whom felt it was harsh.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Omar insisted Nabwire’s dismissal was worth it.
Captain Abud Omar naye hakuwa sawa kabisa😂😂😂. Mbona afanyie Marvin Nabwire hivi?#FootballKE #CHAN2024 pic.twitter.com/2WucJwIscv
— Mûrîmi Njirû (@muriminjirujnr) August 8, 2025
“I think Nabwire’s red card won us this game,” Omar said in the mixed zone.
“If it wasn’t for him stopping the Angola guy from scoring, we would have been speaking another language.”
Omar revealed that McCarthy made subtle tactical changes at halftime to keep the team competitive.
“The coach and technical bench gave us specific instructions on what we needed to do in the second half, and the players gave their all. I am proud of them.”
Kenya now turns its focus to a crucial Group A clash against Morocco on Sunday, August 17, at the same venue.
“All the games, we want to win. Even with the red card today, we still found ways to attack. We are showing great character and hope to keep the momentum against Morocco.”
On a night defined by grit, VAR drama, and one bold challenge, Nabwire’s costly red card may yet be remembered as the moment that kept Kenya’s CHAN dream alive.
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