Harambee Stars success more important than individual accolades - Odada

Richard Odada being awarded the man of the match after Stars' 1-0 win over Pakistan. Photo credit: Mauritius Football Association

FKFPL Harambee Stars success more important than individual accolades - Odada

Mark Kinyanjui 12:16 - 15.06.2023

The former AFC Leopards academy product was awarded Man of the Match after a solid display against Pakistan.

Harambee Stars midfielder Richard Odada insists he is only focused on helping the team move forward rather than his own interests after being named Man of the Match in their 1-0 victory over Pakistan at the ongoing Four Nations Series on Wednesday.

In a game characterized by Kenya having large spells of possession but failing to use it to create chances, Odada was the only Kenyan player who looked imaginative going forwards and genuinely tried to progress the ball forwards whenever necessary.

“Honestly, I just came with the mindset to do my best for my team because it comes first and I come second so I appreciate a lot for getting this award,” he said.

Kenya had originally been scheduled to fly to Mauritius on Saturday before facing Djibouti on Monday, but owing to slight travel complications had to travel on Monday. Odada expressed clear irritation at “losing an opportunity to play” before but was nonetheless happy with the way his team adapted to the situation physically.

“It was very difficult physically because we were training back at home and we were expecting to play on Monday against Djibouti but we did not have the flight to get here which means we lost another opportunity to play,” Odada said.

“I appreciate my teammates and coach because we were able to win which is the most important thing and I am very happy for that.”

Stars will face hosts Mauritius on Sunday and will have four days to prepare for the challenge, as the hosts have set the world alight so far, beating Pakistan 3-0 on Sunday before following up with another comprehensive victory over Djibouti on Wednesday evening.