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Harambee Stars were average at best as they held on to a less-than-inspiring 0-0 draw against Namibia's Brave warriors on Tuesday afternoon in South Africa.
Kenya’s Harambee Stars wrapped up their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a goalless draw against Namibia at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on Tuesday.
The result marked a disappointing end to a lackluster qualification run for both teams, who had already been eliminated from contention for the tournament set to be held in Morocco next year.
The match, played under the sweltering afternoon sun, failed to live up to expectations, with neither side able to find the back of the net despite occasional flashes of promise.
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05:28 - 19.11.2024
Tactical naivety, litany of excuses & more: Why Engin Firat must be held accountable for Harambee Stars' failures
Engin Firat exuded confidence after Kenya topped their AFCON qualification group, sending a warning to Andre Onana and Cameroon, but once results went haywire, he became defensive.
Kenya dominated possession early on, attempting to build play through the flanks, but their efforts were consistently thwarted by a resolute Namibian defense.
The first real chance fell to Alfred Scriven in the 8th minute, but his header was pushed away by Namibia goalkeeper Edward Maova.
Erick Ouma's crosses provided Kenya with opportunities, yet Johnstone Omurwa and the forwards struggled to convert them into meaningful attempts on goal.
The second half saw similarly uninspired play, with both teams failing to break the deadlock. Kenya's Bryne Odhiambo produced a fine save to deny Vitapi Ngaruka’s long-range effort in the 56th minute, while Elmo Ukondja’s late chance for Namibia went begging as his header was miscontrolled and cleared by Kenya’s defense.
Despite changes by Kenya’s coach Engin Firat, including the introductions of Daniel Sakari, Marvin Nabwire, and Jonah Ayunga, the Harambee Stars remained toothless in attack.
The result extended their winless streak to six games, raising questions about the team's direction under Firat.
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15:00 - 19.11.2024
Jacob 'Ghost' Mulee on who should take over as Harambee Stars coach should Engin Firat leave job
Engin Firat's future as Harambee Stars coach looks unclear following the side's failiure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, and Mulee has now opined who he thinks should be considered to take over the job.
Kenya finished third in Group J with six points, while Namibia ended their campaign at the bottom without a win. Cameroon and Zimbabwe secured the group’s top two spots, booking their places in Morocco.
For Kenya, the conclusion of the qualifiers underlines a disappointing year, with no wins in their last two AFCON matches. The focus now shifts to addressing their shortcomings and rebuilding for future campaigns.
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