Kenya defeated Malawi 4-0 during their opening match in the Four-Nations tournament at Bingu Stadium on Saturday, March 23, 2024.
Harambee Stars showed their intent early on, breaking the deadlock within the opening minute. The goal was facilitated by Daniel Anyembe, who spotted Olunga in a favorable position to score. The captain capitalized on the opportunity and made it count with his goal.
Just three minutes later, Kenya extended their lead as Olunga completed his brace from the penalty spot. Malawi goalkeeper Brighton Munthali anticipated the direction, but couldn’t stop the low shot from finding the back of the net.
As a result, Malawi coach Patrick Mabedi made an early tactical adjustment, bringing on Lanjesi Nkhoma to stabilize the team.
Nkhoma’s entrance sparked the hosts into action, as they began to assert themselves in the game, with Nkhoma nearly finding the net on two occasions.
Malawi continued to press forward and seemed to find a lifeline with a contentious penalty call. Debutant Vincent Mahiga made a hasty challenge in the box, despite the Malawian player seeming to be in an offside position. After some hesitation, the referee awarded the penalty.
Odada’s impressive maneuvering allowed him to evade two markers before unleashing a powerful shot. The ball deflected off a Malawi defender, landing at the feet of the unmarked Ayub Timbe, who calmly slotted it home, sealing the 3-0 result decisively.
John Avire, a substitute, received the ball and delivered a decisive strike to secure the fourth goal, effectively ending Malawi’s chances.
With this victory, Kenya advances to face Zimbabwe in the final, vying for the opportunity to lift the Four Nations tournament trophy on Tuesday, March 26.
Zimbabwe secured their spot after a thrilling victory over Zambia in post-match penalties, following a 2-2 draw in regular time.
