Kenyan strikers advised by Ex-Harambee Stars ace on what they need to learn from Aubameyang

SIMON MAINA / AFP

Kenyan strikers advised by Ex-Harambee Stars ace on what they need to learn from Aubameyang

Mark Kinyanjui 15:33 - 25.03.2025

Aubameyang netted a brace against Harambee Stars last Sunday, and upcoming Kenyan forwards have now been told what they need to learn from the former Arsenal hitman.

Kenyan strikers have been offered advice by former Harambee Stars forward Bonface Ambani on what they need to learn about Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang’s game in order to improve.

Aubameyang’s clinical display was pivotal as he led Gabon to a 2-1 victory over Kenya at the Nyayo National Stadium, scoring twice and exposing weaknesses in Kenya’s defense.

His performance was a masterclass in positioning, composure, and finishing—qualities Ambani believes Kenyan strikers must incorporate into their game.

The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker made his mark early in the game, netting the opener in the 16th minute.

 Taking advantage of a defensive lapse, Aubameyang positioned himself perfectly in the box to receive a well-placed cross from Guelor Kanga. With the Kenyan defense caught off guard, he struck a low, precise shot past goalkeeper Ian Otieno, silencing the home crowd.

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His second goal, which came in the 52nd minute, showcased his composure under pressure. After his initial shot was blocked by Eric ‘Marcelo’  Otieno’s hand inside the penalty area, Aubameyang stepped up to take the penalty. 

Displaying his trademark calmness, he sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, sealing Gabon’s win with a precise strike into the bottom corner.

While Kenya created numerous scoring opportunities, they failed to convert, with Michael Olunga, in particular, struggling to find the back of the net. The stark contrast in finishing efficiency between the two sides highlighted a key area of improvement for Kenyan strikers.

Ambani, who enjoyed stints with AFC Leopards and Tanzania’s Yanga, and has built a reputation for developing talents such as Gor Mahia’s Austin Odhiambo and Serbia-based Richard Odada, took to social media to break down what makes Aubameyang an elite forward.

“Strikers, I bet you saw how Aubameyang made his runs. He was always on the blind side of our defensive lines, making sure tracking him down was a nightmare,” Ambani noted on his Facebook page.

He elaborated on the effectiveness of Aubameyang’s movement: “His in-and-outside runs were well-timed, always avoiding offside traps. He utilized the two-run trick to perfection—moves that helped him secure the first goal and win the penalty.”

Ambani advised Kenyan strikers to study Aubameyang’s approach carefully. “Take your time as a striker and watch his moves. You can rewatch the match and make the remote control your best friend. Freeze the situations. His first touch was key. Knowing where and when to run was another crucial factor.”

Highlighting the importance of speed, Ambani added, “His acceleration made it difficult to mark him. That simply tells you as a forward, you need speed, and every single chance counts.”

As Ambani suggests, if Kenyan forwards can integrate these aspects into their game, they will become more effective in front of goal and elevate the national team’s attacking threat in future matches.