Date: Sunday, August 3, 2025
Kick-Off Time: 3:00 PM EAT
Venue: Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani – Nairobi
Tournament: CHAN 2024 (hosted in 2025)
Match Overview
The 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) officially kicks off today with an explosive Group A opener as hosts Kenya take on tournament veterans DR Congo. With the Kasarani Stadium fully sold out and the eyes of the continent on Nairobi, both teams will be under pressure to start strong.
This match will serve as a litmus test for both nations—Kenya eager to impress at home, and DR Congo looking to extend their legacy in the CHAN tournament where they’ve already lifted the trophy twice.
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
DR Congo holds a superior historical record in this fixture, having won three of the last five encounters. Kenya has managed one win and one draw in that stretch.
More importantly, DR Congo has been in significantly better form recently, coming into this tournament on a five-match unbeaten run with four wins and just one goal conceded.
Kenya, on the other hand, has shown inconsistency—winning just one of their last five matches and conceding six goals in that span. Their last few performances have raised concerns about defensive organization and finishing efficiency.
Tactical Breakdown
Kenya under coach Engin Firat is known for direct attacking football, with speed on the flanks and quick transitions from defense to attack. Players like Benson Omala and Rooney Onyango will be vital in unlocking the DR Congo defense. Goalkeeper Patrick Matasi will also be key if Kenya is to keep a clean sheet.
However, Kenya’s weaknesses lie in defending set pieces and maintaining shape under sustained pressure. If DR Congo dominates possession and wins corners or free-kicks in dangerous areas, Kenya may struggle.
DR Congo, managed by Otis Ngoma, brings tournament pedigree and discipline. The team is well-organized, physically strong, and tactically mature. They often sit in a compact mid-block and attack through structured build-up play. The likes of Jean Baleke and Glody Lilepo offer both physicality and technical quality in the final third.
Match Prediction
Based on current form, historical edge, and squad depth, DR Congo enters this match as the favorite. While Kenya will benefit from home support and may dominate short periods, DR Congo’s overall game control and efficiency in both boxes could prove decisive.
Prediction: Over 1.5
Likely Scoreline: DR Congo 1-1 Kenya
An early goal could open the match up, but if DR Congo stays composed, they are more likely to score twice and control the pace of the game.
Alternate Scoreline: 1-1 Draw
This becomes more likely if Kenya scores first and sits back to defend for most of the match.
Corners and Goal Total Insight
The match is expected to be tight and tactical, with few open-play scoring chances. As a result, the total number of goals is likely to stay under 2.5. A low corner count is also expected, given the cautious approach both teams are likely to adopt in an opener.
- Expected total goals: 2 or fewer
- Both teams to score: likely
- Estimated total corners: 8 to 11
Where to Watch
Kenya vs DR Congo will be broadcast live on KBC Channel One. Public viewing spots are also available across major cities including Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu.
Live commentary and post-match analysis will also be available online through official CHAN media channels.