Kenyan President William Ruto has praised head coach Benni McCarthy and the Harambee Stars following their strong start in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Kenya secured a narrow 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening Group A fixture at the Safaricom Stadium Kasarani on Sunday evening.
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The win came courtesy of a superb solo goal by Austin Odhiambo in the stoppage time of the first half.
With hopes of clinching the CHAN title under the leadership of South African tactician McCarthy, Kenya is co-hosting the tournament alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
President Ruto, who has been vocal in his support for McCarthy and the national team, expressed confidence in their potential and commended the players' efforts following the hard-fought win.
"We salute Harambee Stars for an outstanding and entertaining display of talent," Kenya president William Ruto wrote on his X account.
"Your victory today against the Democratic Republic of the Congo is the beginning of what promises to be a historic chapter in Kenyan football.
"Thank you, Austin Odhiambo, for sealing the win. We are living up to the rallying cry Stars Must Win. We are behind you all the way."
McCarthy, formerly a first-team coach at Manchester United, remains confident that his side can go far in the tournament, provided they stay disciplined.
"We have made a good start, but we have to stay grounded, there are tough games ahead, but if the boys keep playing like this, we can go far," McCarthy said, per Pan-Africa Football.
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"I am proud of my team, many of them were stepping onto such a big stage for the first time. Beating one of the tournament favourites is massive for us. We were nervous at the start, but once the boys settled, they showed real bravery."
The Harambee Stars are set to face Angola, Morocco, and Zambia in the group stage. Their next match is scheduled against Angola on Thursday.
