Kenya’s Harambee Stars are set for a critical test as they face off against Cameroon in a pivotal double-header in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. The stakes couldn’t be higher, with both teams tied at the top of Group J, each with four points. The first leg will be played at the 50,000-capacity Japoma Stadium in Douala on October 11, while the second leg takes place at Uganda’s Nelson Mandela Stadium on October 14 due to the lack of a CAF-approved stadium in Kenya.
For Harambee Stars, these back-to-back matches are crucial to securing a place in next year’s tournament in Morocco. To succeed, Kenya will need to neutralize several of Cameroon’s key players, who have the potential to make a decisive impact on the outcome of the matches. Here’s a look at Cameroon’s top threats and what the Harambee Stars must do to contain them.
1. Vincent Aboubakar: Cameroon’s Lethal Striker
Vincent Aboubakar, Cameroon’s captain and main striker, is a major threat to the Harambee Stars. The experienced forward currently plays for Turkish club Hatayspor and has a track record of delivering crucial goals in important matches. With multiple AFCON tournaments under his belt, including a title-winning goal in the 2017 final against Egypt, Aboubakar’s experience and goal-scoring prowess make him a key player Kenya’s defense must watch closely.
Aboubakar’s physicality, positioning, and sharp instincts in the box mean that Kenya’s center-backs must stay alert throughout the match. Limiting his space and denying him the opportunity to make runs behind the defense will be crucial. Kenyan defenders like Joash Onyango and Brian Mandela will need to put in a disciplined performance to minimize Aboubakar’s influence.
2. Andre Onana: The Indomitable Wall
Cameroon’s defense is anchored by Manchester United’s Andre Onana, widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in Africa. Onana’s impressive reflexes, command of his area, and shot-stopping ability make him a formidable opponent for any striker. His recent performances for Manchester United, where he was voted player of the month despite the club’s struggles, highlight his form and readiness for this international assignment.
Harambee Stars’ forwards, including Michael Olunga, must be clinical in front of goal to beat Onana. Engin Firat, Kenya’s head coach, will likely emphasize the importance of quick, precise attacks to catch Onana off guard. Testing the Manchester United shot-stopper with early shots and set-pieces could be Kenya’s best approach to breaking down Cameroon’s defense.
3. Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa: The Midfield Maestro
In the midfield, Cameroon relies heavily on Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, who plays for Napoli in Italy’s Serie A. Anguissa’s energy, composure, and ability to control the tempo of the game make him an essential part of Cameroon’s game plan. Operating as a box-to-box midfielder, he not only provides defensive support but also contributes to Cameroon’s offensive build-up.
For Kenya to have a chance, the Harambee Stars must counter Anguissa’s influence in the midfield. The likes of Lawrence Juma and Kenneth Muguna will have to match his intensity, cut off passing lanes, and disrupt his rhythm. Winning the midfield battle will be crucial for Kenya, as it would allow them to create opportunities and put pressure on Cameroon’s defense.
4. Bryan Mbeumo: The Speedy Winger
Bryan Mbeumo is another player who poses a significant threat to Kenya’s hopes. The Brentford winger has been in scintillating form this season, scoring six goals in seven Premier League matches, including a crucial goal in their recent 5-3 victory against Wolverhampton. Mbeumo’s pace, dribbling skills, and eye for goal make him a constant danger on the flanks.
Kenya’s full-backs, especially Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma, will have a challenging task containing Mbeumo. Ouma, known for his speed and defensive capabilities, will need to be disciplined and position himself well to prevent Mbeumo from getting into dangerous positions. Tracking back and providing support in numbers will be essential to neutralize the winger’s threat.
5. Christopher Wooh: The Defensive Rock
At just 23 years old, Christopher Wooh has already established himself as a central figure in Cameroon’s defense. Currently playing for Rennes in the French Ligue 1, Wooh’s height, strength, and tactical awareness provide Cameroon with a solid defensive base. Tasked with organizing the backline and protecting Onana, Wooh’s presence ensures that Cameroon’s defense remains difficult to breach.
Kenya’s forwards, including Olunga and Cliff Nyakeya, will need to be creative and dynamic in their attacking play to break down Wooh’s defense. Quick passes, off-the-ball movement, and exploiting spaces behind the defensive line will be vital strategies for Kenya. Wooh’s ability to read the game and intercept plays makes it important for Kenya to stay unpredictable and use set-pieces to their advantage.
Engin Firat’s Tactical Approach: How Kenya Can Compete
For Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat, devising a tactical plan to neutralize Cameroon’s threats will be essential. Firat has shown adaptability in past matches, and for this crucial encounter, he may opt for a compact, counter-attacking setup. By closing down spaces in the midfield and blocking Cameroon’s key playmakers, Kenya can frustrate their opponents and look to strike on the break.
The presence of pacey forwards like Olunga and Nyakeya will be vital in exploiting Cameroon’s defense, particularly if Firat’s side can capitalize on turnovers and quick transitions. The defensive unit, led by Joash Onyango, will need to stay organized and communicate effectively to handle the physical and aerial threats posed by Aboubakar and Wooh.
The Path to AFCON Success
As Kenya prepares for their double-header against Cameroon, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Both teams are vying for a place in the AFCON 2025 tournament, and for Harambee Stars, the opportunity to gain a positive result in Douala is crucial. Neutralizing Cameroon’s key players—Aboubakar, Onana, Anguissa, Mbeumo, and Wooh—will be central to Kenya’s game plan.
While the challenge is immense, Kenya’s tactical discipline, teamwork, and determination will be their strongest assets. A positive result in Douala could set the stage for an even more decisive performance in the return leg in Uganda. With their AFCON hopes on the line, Harambee Stars must rise to the occasion and prove their mettle against one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
The road to Morocco starts now, and for Harambee Stars, it’s a chance to showcase their potential and resilience on the continental stage. Fans will be watching closely as the team battles it out, with every point crucial for securing a ticket to AFCON 2025.
