Daniel Sakari finds his footing as Harambee Stars battle to crucial draw with Angola

Daniel Sakari during his training at the Harambee Stars camp. (Photo: Harambee Stars/ Facebook)

By Erick Kariuki
Friday, August 8, 2025

Speaking after the game, full-back Daniel Sakari, who was involved in the build-up to the winning goal against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), told 'The Eastleigh Voice' that he felt more composed in this match compared to his CHAN debut.

7Harambee Stars, debutants at CHAN 2024, played out a draw in their second group match against Angola. Austine Odhiambo’s penalty brought Kenya level after Angola had taken an early lead, keeping the Stars' knockout hopes alive.

Odhiambo’s goal, his second of the tournament following his match-winner against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), once again proved crucial. Head coach Benni McCarthy retained his five-defender system, with Manzur Suleiman operating as a midfield "destroyer" in the heart of the pitch.

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Austine Odhiambo celebrates scoring a penalty against Angola. (Photo: PS Raymond Omollo/X)

Speaking after the game, full-back Daniel Sakari, who was involved in the build-up to the winning goal against DRC, told The Eastleigh Voice that he felt more composed in this match compared to his CHAN debut.

“The game was good from the start. We knew Angola were a tactical team. Unlike the previous game, I stepped up from the beginning to the end. I didn’t have trouble today, even after the coach pushed me to the flanks; it was good. In the Morocco game, we are going all out. With two days to prepare, we will do our best because we know how crucial that game is,” said Sakari.

Chrispine Erambo, who impressed after coming on in the 68th minute for Alpha Onyango, said he had used his time on the bench to analyse Angola’s play and identify areas to exploit.

Chrispine Erambo during training at the Harambee Stars camp. (Photo: Harambee Stars/ Facebook)

“The game wasn’t easy, especially after the red card, although it worked to our advantage as it came after we had equalised. It wasn’t easy, but we fought as a team,” said Erambo.

His sharp run in the 71st minute nearly resulted in a goal, but his shot was deflected by an Angolan defender for a corner.

“There was pressure when I came on, but we handled it well. While on the bench, I was analysing the match and spotted some loopholes that I had to exploit. Morocco won’t be an easy match, but we will fight, we’ll give our best,” he added.

With four points from two games, Harambee Stars top Group A. They face a strong Moroccan side next on Sunday, August 10. Morocco will be fresher, having played only once so far, a commanding 2-0 victory over Angola.