Harambee Stars defender expresses sadness over inability to host Burundi & Ivory Coast in Kenya

The former Gor Mahia defender has made his feelings clear on Kenya's lack of stadia that meet international standards after Harambee Stars were forced to seek refuge in Malawi.

Harambee Stars defender Eric 'Marcelo' Ouma has voiced his disappointment about Kenya's inability to host its upcoming World Cup qualifiers on home soil. 

The national team is set to face Burundi and Ivory Coast at the Bingu National Stadium in Malawi, a situation that denies Kenya the opportunity to benefit from a home crowd.

The two crucial matches, scheduled for this Friday and the following Tuesday, were relocated due to the lack of any Confederation of African Football (CAF)-approved stadiums in Kenya.

 This is a consequence of the closure of both the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo Stadium for renovations.

The Ministry of Sports, led by Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, had promised to have Nyayo Stadium ready before the international break. However, this did not materialise, leaving the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) scrambling for an alternative venue.

"It is a different feeling and atmosphere playing in front of our fans. The support would have been massive, but for now, we will miss their support that pushes the team to give better performances," Marcelo told Mozzart Sport.

Marcelo, who is just returning from an injury, expressed the emotional and strategic impact of missing out on the home advantage. The former Gor Mahia defender highlighted the unique atmosphere and motivational boost that comes from playing in front of a home crowd.

He also criticised the lack of proper sporting infrastructure in Kenya. "It is disappointing that as a country of over 50 million people, we don't have a stadium that is CAF approved," he said.

“I have, however, seen the government trying to put up stadiums in different areas, and it's my hope that it will meet the required set of standards."

Despite these setbacks, Marcelo remains optimistic about the team's ability to rise above the challenges. Currently playing in Poland with Raków Czestochowa, he emphasised the players' readiness to adapt and perform despite the less-than-ideal circumstances.

"It is tough, but sometimes we have to deal with the reality and work with what we have currently," he added.

The Kenyan national team, now devoid of the powerful backing of a home crowd, faces an uphill task. Yet, this situation also presents an opportunity for the players to showcase their resilience and determination on an international stage.

As Kenya's sports infrastructure undergoes much-needed renovations and developments, the hope remains that future generations of players will not face the same challenges.

 Marcelo's sentiments reflect a broader call for improved sports facilities that can support the aspirations of Kenyan athletes and bring the nation's sports fans closer to their teams.

In the meantime, the Harambee Stars will focus on their immediate task, securing victories in their World Cup qualifiers and keeping the dream of their maiden World Cup appearance alive.