Emerging Stars forward Patrick Otieno says their 2-0 win over, COSAFA Cup defending champions, Zambia has raised the team’s hopes of clinching the title to new highs.Stars dimmed Zambia 2-0 in the opening pool B match of the tournament, staged at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Thursday, sending a clear message of their intention to bring glory to Nairobi.Otieno, who was named the man of the match, was on target alongside Gor Mahia creative midfielder Austin Odhiambo, who struck from the spot after the former was brought down in the area.##NAJAVA_MECA_8185369##Kenya was expected to struggle against Zambia given that they were up against the holders and the most successful nation in the tournament but the team put up a brave fight to the last whistle.Otieno, says the performance and result against Chipolopolo left the team more confident in winning the title.“It is very possible to win the title. When you beat a big team you gather confidence and your ambitions shoot up,” he told Mozzart Sport in a telephone interview.How Emerging Stars managed to humble Zambia in COSAFA openerReacting to his personal show on the pitch, the Posta Rangers star said he was pleased with it and the strides made in regaining his form.Otieno underwent knee surgery in 2021 that disrupted his progress and dealt a significant blow to his form but he says, he is on course to hit his best again.“It was a good match and experience for me. Such a kind of performance improves the confidence of a player. I feel I am getting to my best after the surgery,” remarked the former Nzoia Sugar winger.Harambee Stars stun defending champions Zambia in COSAFA Cup debutMeanwhile, the former Kariobangi Sharks winger dedicated the award dished after the game against Zambia to his family.He said the support from his family members was instrumental when he battled career-threatening injury and during other low moments in his career.“The support from my family has been immense. They have held my hand during difficult moments in my career and it is for this reason, I dedicate the award to them,” he added.
