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Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has warned Burundi and Ivory Coast not to expect an easy match against Kenya despite the African champions being considered favourites.
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga feels Kenya should respect their next opponents Burundi and Ivory Coast but not fear them.
Kenya take on Burundi on June 7 and Ivory Coast four days later in Malawi for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and while the African champions have been termed the team to beat, Olunga is of the opinion that Burundi too offer a different kind of threat, but is backing Harambee Stars to overcome the challenges.
“When you go to play against African champions you have to respect them because they are African champions for a reason,” Olunga said on Friday.
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06:28 - 31.05.2024
Michael Olunga beats African greats Sadio Mane & Victor Boniface to scoring record
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga continued to showcase his goal scoring prowess as he outscored African stars such as Sadio Mane and Victor Boniface in 2023-24.
“However, in football is about pushing yourself. We have seen many teams termed underdogs who have gone on to compete so there is no easy opponent.
“Burundi, people think they are a walkover but not. If you watched their first two games, when they played at home, they were fantastic and won one before losing against Gabon.
“All games are difficult but we are not an easy opponent. We have been playing well and the results are positive but now is the real test and we are ready.”
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12:27 - 30.05.2024
Harambee Stars defender reveals specific attribute Kenya must embrace to overcome Ivory Coast
Kenya are set to play Ivory Coast in Malawi on June 11, but left-back Aboud Omar is adamant the Harambee Stars can beat them if they embrace one specific attribute.
Kenya are third in Group F with three points from two matches, same as Burundi, with the Ivorians top on six points, a similar tally with Gabon, while the Gambia, who will now be handled by ex-Gor Mahia coach Johnathan McKinstry, and Seychelles are yet to record a point.
Olunga feels every team still has a chance in the group given the top side will seal direct World Cup qualification while the second go into a playoff round.
“It is still an open group, the campaign is really long. We have only played two games so these next two fixtures are going to be decisive,” he added.
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16:58 - 22.05.2024
Harambee Stars: Firat reveals how Kenya plans to neutralise Ivory Coast & Burundi’s threats
Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has described how he plans to tackle the different challenges that will be presented by Ivory Coast and Burundi in the World Cup qualifiers.
“Each team wants to participate in these global championships and it is no exception for us. We are going there not only to compete but also for the results.
“Time when we used to go just to participate is gone. We have a young and hungry squad willing to compete. Good local and experienced players giving this country a good foundation.”
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