)
A number of players made their national team debuts for the side against Burkina Faso last weekend, and Muchiri has now sent them words of advice.
Harambee Stars winger Boniface Muchiri has urged the squad's debutants to remain grounded and committed as they embark on their international careers. Speaking during the ongoing Mapinduzi Cup, where Kenya is preparing for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), Muchiri emphasized the importance of hard work and humility for the newcomers.
The tournament has provided a platform for several players to make their debuts under head coach Francis Kimanzi. In the opening 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso, Brian Okoth and Hannif Wesonga were handed their first starts in defense, while Brian Musa, Ryan Ogam, and James Kinyanjui also earned their maiden caps.
Later in the game, substitutes Kelly Madada, Darius Msagha, and Mohamed Bajaber also joined the action, showcasing the team’s depth and focus on developing fresh talent.
)
13:50 - 07.01.2025
Kenya races against time to host CHAN 2024
Muchiri, who returned to the national team after a three-year absence, reflected on the promising start for the debutants.
“For the young lads that made their debut, the likes of James Kinyanjui who also scored his first goal in the process, as well as Kelly, it is a great stepping stone for them,” said the experienced Ulinzi Stars winger.
However, he was quick to caution his teammates against complacency. Drawing from his own journey, which began with his debut against Uganda in 2019, Muchiri stressed the need for discipline and perseverance.
)
17:45 - 03.10.2024
Ulinzi Stars' Boniface Muchiri on how mother's support helped him go through three-year Harambee Stars snub
Muchiri has been recalled to the national team for the first time since October 2021 ahead of Harambee Stars' crucial AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Cameroon.
“They should not get comfortable. They should be humble and they must continue working hard. This is just the beginning for them, but they should keep working hard in order to earn more caps for the country.”
Reflecting on the team’s performance in the opening match, Muchiri commended the effort shown by his teammates while highlighting areas for improvement.
“Everyone gave his 100 percent for the team, so the most important thing for us is to know that competitions like these can help us move forward as a team if we continue working hard and being smart.”
Although the match ended in a controversial 1-1 draw, Muchiri believes the game provided valuable insights for the team.
“Despite not getting all three points the other day, it is a good start and it gives us a good sense of direction. We know where we went wrong, but in football, you have to accept where you went wrong, learn, and reorganize yourself in order to come back stronger.”
The Mapinduzi Cup serves as a critical part of Kenya’s preparations for CHAN 2024. With a mix of experienced players and promising new faces, the Harambee Stars are laying the groundwork for success in the tournament, set to kick off in February 2025.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)