The Emerging Stars kicked off their 2024 COSAFA Cup campaign with a historic 2-0 victory over defending champions Zambia in a Group B match at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, on Thursday evening.

The Ken Odhiambo-coached side displayed impressive efficiency, scoring twice from their only two shots on target in the first half, securing a 2-0 lead by halftime that they maintained until the final whistle. This crucial win places them at the top of Group B.

FT; Zambia 0-2 Kenya. Emerging Stars kick off their #COSAFACup2024 with an emphatic win over Chipolopolo. Who was your Man of the Match? #HarambeeStars #TeamKenya pic.twitter.com/dzjX1icauA

— Passion Sports (@PassionSportsEA) June 27, 2024

Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a composed penalty, beating Zambia’s goalkeeper Charles Kalumba. Patrick Otieno, who won the penalty, doubled Kenya’s lead in the 19th minute by capitalizing on a low cross from Benson Omala.

This victory is significant as it marks Kenya’s first win against Zambia at an away or neutral venue in 49 years. Since their win in the 1975 CECAFA Cup, Kenya had endured a 15-match winless streak against Zambia at such venues, with only four draws and eleven losses.

The result slightly improves Kenya’s overall record against Zambia, now standing at 20 wins, 7 draws, and 25 losses, with 67 goals scored and 95 conceded.

Kenya, participating in the COSAFA Cup for only the second time since their 2013 group stage exit, executed their game plan perfectly by allowing Zambia to dominate possession and then hitting them on the counter-attack.

The Emerging Stars, captained by Rooney Onyango, featured Byrne Omondi in goal, protected by a back-four of Geoffrey Onyango, Amos Wanjala, Sylvester Owino, and Alphonse Omija. The midfield trio consisted of John Ochieng, Chris Erambo, and Rooney Onyango, while Patrick Otieno, Benson Omala, and Austin Odhiambo formed the attacking line.

Kenya’s strategy paid off quickly. In the 8th minute, Patrick Otieno was fouled by Chitoshi Chinga, who narrowly avoided a red card. The referee, Patrice Milazare, awarded a penalty, which Austin Odhiambo converted with precision.

Zambia’s attempts to equalize created gaps in their defense, which Kenya exploited again in the 19th minute. A swift passing move found Benson Omala, who delivered a low cross into the box, allowing Patrick Otieno to finish with his left foot.

The Emerging Stars continued to defend resolutely, with Byrne Omondi making several key saves. Maintaining their 2-0 lead into the second half, Kenya remained disciplined, countering when opportunities arose. Patrick Otieno nearly scored again in the 65th minute, but his header was saved by Kalumba.

Zambia’s increasing desperation led to more defensive efforts from Kenya, who blocked, tackled, and cleared effectively. Omondi’s performance in goal was outstanding, ensuring Zambia couldn’t find a way back.

Zambia finished the match with ten men after their captain Kelvin Kapumbu was sent off in injury time. Kenya’s defense held firm, securing a confidence-boosting 2-0 win.

This victory places Kenya at the top of Group B, giving them a strong chance to qualify for the semifinals if they earn at least four points from their remaining two group stage matches. Kenya’s next match is against Comoros on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Wolfson Stadium in Ibhayi. Comoros are third in the group after a 1-0 loss to Zimbabwe, who are level on points with Kenya but second on goal difference.

Winning the second game is crucial for Kenya, as the top team in each of the three groups advances to the semifinals, with the remaining slot going to the best second-placed team. The Emerging Stars are in a strong position to make it to the last four if they secure at least two wins in the group stage.