Little was known about Austin Odhiambo until the start of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN)
Odhiambo scored the first and winning goal for Harambee Stars in their opening match against DR Congo
He followed up his newly-found fame with a second goal on Thursday evening during Kenya vs Angola match

Little was known about Austin Odhiambo until the start of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on August 2.

Odhiambo scored the first and winning goal for Harambee Stars in their opening match against DR Congo. He followed up his newly-found fame with a second goal on Thursday evening during Kenya vs Angola match.

The Gor Mahia player scored a penalty for the Stars in the twelfth minute, leading to a draw at the end of the match.

Odhiambo personifies talents that move in silence, a character he has mastered since his high school days, despite playing in high-flying football tournaments organised by Michael Olunga.

Speaking about Kenya’s dream at CHAN 2024, Odhiambo said that his winning mentality is the reason he has scored for the Stars twice. Today, he is Harambee Stars’ golden boy. Who is he?

Austin Odhiambo Profile

He was born December 16, 1999, in Siaya, Nyanza, Kenya and named Austin Odhiambo Otieno. ‘Odhis’ as his peers popularly called him, wanted to be a footballer. Raised in Baba Dogo, Nairobi, Odhiambo’s football roots were nurtured in the streets and local academies.

He participated in numerous tournaments together with his brother Tyson Otieno, who plays for Kenya Police FC. Otieno inspired his younger brother, Austin Odhiambo to focus on being a good footballer.

His stint with Wazito FC and Mathare United challenged the Harambee Stars midfielder to play better.

Which Club Does Austin Odhiambo Play for?

Odhiambo began his professional journey with AFC Leopards, one of Kenya’s oldest clubs. His potential was first noticed in 2016 by the Boniface Ambani, the new chairman of the Leopards.

By 2019, he had earned a place in the senior team despite previous concerns about his anger issues. He became popular for his two-footed technique, vision, and excellent dribbling.

In October 2021, Odhiambo switched to Gor Mahia. The transfer stirred controversy, particularly after AFC Leopards reportedly valued him at Ksh10 million.

However, Austin Odhiambo terminated his contract early, allowing Gor Mahia to sign him on a free transfer. He became central to Gor Mahia’s attacking strategy, providing numerous assists and goals.

At K’Ogalo, he played a vital role in helping the team clinch a league title and a domestic cup.

International Career

Odhiambo made his senior debut for Kenya during the 2024 COSAFA Cup, marking the occasion with a goal in his first match.

He later featured in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers and the 2024 CHAN tournament, where he scored the decisive goal against DR Congo.

Back in 2021, he almost joined Swedish club, Elfsborg, but the deal didn’t go through. Still, he hasn’t given up. He’s working hard to get a chance to play in Europe, which has always been his dream.

He is a skilled player who can play in the middle of the field, on the wing, or just behind the main striker.