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Harambee Stars are top of Group J alongside Cameroon, with both sides set to face each other over two legs in October.
Harambee Stars vice-captain Joseph Okumu has outlined the key condition he and his teammates must meet to secure their place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Speaking after Kenya's crucial 2-1 victory over Namibia in their Group J qualifier, Okumu emphasised that a determined and relentless fight will be the only way for the Stars to progress from their group and qualify for the prestigious continental tournament.
A second-half free-kick stunner from John Avire and a superb finish by Duke Abuya on Tuesday evening ensured Kenya claimed all three points against Namibia, in a match held at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The result marked a much-needed boost to their qualification campaign after a goalless draw against Zimbabwe in their opening fixture, played at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Uganda.
The win placed Kenya at the top of Group J, level on points with Cameroon, but boasting a superior goal difference. With both teams tied on four points, the upcoming doubleheader against Cameroon in October could prove decisive for Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for AFCON 2025.
The top two teams from the group will secure their spots in the tournament, which is set to be hosted in Morocco next year.
Reflecting on the Namibia victory, Okumu acknowledged the challenge posed by the hosts but praised his teammates for their resilience.
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"It was a tough game playing away from home, but it was a good fight from the boys and a well-deserved win," Okumu told OdiBets TV.
He highlighted the intensity of Namibia's play, particularly in the first half, but credited the Stars' ability to contain their opponents as a crucial turning point.
"They played at home and came with a lot of intensity, but the aim was to contain them in the first half and not concede. That helped us because in the second half, we had more energy than them, and that is what has helped us."
As the focus now shifts to their crucial encounters against Cameroon, Okumu underscored the importance of maintaining this fighting spirit. With the group still wide open, he believes the side that demonstrates the greatest hunger and determination will come out on top.
"We have to fight. The group remains open, and it is all about who wants it more," he concluded.
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06:00 - 12.09.2024
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Engin Firat has revealed one key factor that could help his charges shock Cameroon in October after they moved to the top of Group J of their AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
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