Kenya’s Emerging Stars secured a 2-1 first-leg victory over Ivory Coast at Nyayo National Stadium.
Andreas Odhiambo struck in the 83rd minute at Nyayo to give Kenya a narrow advantage before the return leg in Abidjan.
Andreas Odhiambo scored a late winner as Kenya’s Emerging Stars beat Ivory Coast 2-1 at Nyayo National Stadium on Wednesday. The victory gave Kenya the advantage in their 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations second-round qualifying tie.
With the first leg level, Odhiambo dribbled through the Ivorian defence and finished in the 83rd minute. Anthony Kimani’s side will now carry a one-goal lead into the return match in Abidjan on November 17.
Emerging Stars prevail after second-half goals
Ivory Coast tested Kenya early, with several Europe-based players in the visiting squad. However, the hosts maintained their defensive discipline and reached half-time without conceding.
Captain Kevin Wangaya helped organise Kenya’s midfield, while goalkeeper Caleb Kramer stayed alert to the visitors’ attacks. Kenya then grew into the contest and found the breakthrough in the 64th minute.
Substitute Henry Omollo finished a move that began with Lawrence Okoth’s delivery, putting the hosts ahead. However, Ivory Coast responded in the 76th minute with a powerful volley that beat Kramer.
The equaliser brought the visitors back into contention, but Odhiambo restored Kenya’s lead seven minutes later. His individual run and finish prompted celebrations among the home supporters and settled the first leg.
Kimani urges ambition for Abidjan return
After the match, Kimani praised his players for maintaining their resolve under pressure. He said Kenya had expected a difficult test and welcomed their response to Ivory Coast’s equaliser.
The coach also highlighted the contributions of Omollo and Okoth to the opening goal. He said Omollo had delivered what the technical team wanted, while Okoth had played an important supporting role.
However, Kimani warned his players against treating the first-leg victory as a completed task. He expects Ivory Coast to pose a strong challenge at home and urged Kenya to carry their confidence into the return fixture.
Rather than focus only on defending the lead, Kimani wants his side to remain ambitious. He expressed confidence in their ability to progress if they play bravely and take their chances.
The teams meet again at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, where Kenya will seek a place in the final qualifying round. Wednesday’s result gives Kimani’s squad a narrow advantage as they pursue qualification for the continental finals.
