Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat names his starting XI for Zimbabwe clash

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Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat names his starting XI for Zimbabwe clash

Festus Chuma 15:00 - 06.09.2024

Harambee Stars face Zimbabwe in Uganda for Afcon qualifiers without home advantage, aiming to replicate their 2019 continental success.

After missing out on the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations due to a FIFA ban, Kenya's national football team, the Harambee Stars, are set to begin their quest for redemption in the qualifiers for the upcoming tournament in Morocco.

Their first challenge is a face-off against Zimbabwe on Friday at 4 PM at the Mandela National Stadium in Uganda.

In an intriguing twist of fate, the Harambee Stars will not enjoy the familiar roar of their home crowd as they are compelled to host the Warriors in Kampala due to the non-availability of a FIFA-accredited stadium in Kenya.

Despite this setback, the team, under the guidance of Coach Engin Firat, is poised to make a strong start in the qualifiers.

The determination to replicate their 2019 success, where Kenya qualified for the continental finals in Egypt, is palpable.

Firat has opted for a trusted squad, despite the notable absence of team captain Michael Olunga, defender Johnstone Omurwa, and midfielder Timothy Ouma from IF Elfsborg.

The team, however, is riding high on confidence following their recent victories over Namibia and Zambia.

Kenya showcased their might in March at the Malawi Four Nations Tournament with a 3-1 victory against Namibia, followed by a compelling 2-0 win over Zambia during the COSAFA Cup in South Africa in June.

Historically, Kenya has dominated the head-to-head matchups against Zimbabwe, boasting six wins to Zimbabwe’s single victory, alongside four draws from 11 encounters across all competitions.

Harambee Stars starting XI:

Bryne Omondi, Alphonce Omija, Erick Ouma, Joseph Okumu, Sylvester Owino, Richard Odada, Anthony Akumu, Rooney Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Duke Abuya, Eric Johana