As Kenya’s Harambee Stars prepare for their must-win 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, head coach Engin Firat has made a bold decision by dropping long-time goalkeeper Patrick Matasi. With matches against Zimbabwe and Namibia on the horizon, both held in South Africa, Kenya faces a high-stakes scenario that could see them return to the prestigious tournament for the first time since 2019. Former Kenyan international Elijah Onsika has voiced his strong support for Firat’s call, believing this change will bring the focus and stability needed to secure crucial victories.
The coach’s choice has been met with mixed reactions, with some fans lamenting the absence of Matasi, a veteran who has played in high-pressure situations for Kenya in the past. However, his recent performances have left much to be desired. In Kenya’s recent AFCON qualifiers, Matasi struggled, notably in a 4-0 defeat to Cameroon, where defensive lapses compounded by goalkeeping blunders led to a devastating loss. Firat’s squad selection, released this week, excludes Matasi and instead includes KCB’s standout goalkeeper Farouk Shikalo, alongside Bryne Omondi from Bandari and Ian Otieno, currently playing for South African side Richards Bay.
For Onsika, a former player with Kisumu Poster, the decision to replace Matasi with Shikalo reflects both tactical acumen and timely accountability. “I believe Firat made the right call to drop Patrick [Matasi]. We all know the risks he’s brought in recent matches, and with two must-win games ahead, Kenya needs a reliable goalkeeper. The stakes are too high for repeated errors,” Onsika told Flashscore in an interview following the squad announcement.
Kenya’s AFCON hopes hinge not only on winning both matches against Zimbabwe and Namibia but also on Zimbabwe faltering against Cameroon. Firat’s choice of Shikalo, who has been in stellar form for KCB, seems to underscore the coach’s commitment to leaving no stone unturned. This season, Shikalo’s contributions have been instrumental in KCB’s rise to the top of the Kenyan league, showcasing both skill and a commanding presence that Kenya’s national team now seeks to harness. In Onsika’s view, these qualities make Shikalo the ideal candidate for this high-stakes challenge.
Kenya Harambee Stars Coach Engin Firat Makes Bold Changes Ahead of Crucial AFCON Qualifiers
“Shikalo has been in great form this season, helping KCB maintain the top spot. He seems to have rediscovered his rhythm and confidence, and if Firat entrusts him with the starting role, I believe he’ll deliver,” Onsika continued. The former international also praised Firat’s timing, suggesting that while Matasi’s drop may seem sudden to some, it is a necessary change for the team’s survival. “Firat’s decision is brave. Some might argue it should have come sooner, but even now, the timing could still benefit us. We need to focus on what’s ahead rather than dwell on what went wrong in the past.”
The decision to replace Matasi stems from repeated mistakes in key matches, with Onsika describing these as “schoolboy blunders” that no top-level keeper should make. “Matasi has had several opportunities to redeem himself, yet he consistently repeats the same mistakes,” Onsika said. “He should not be upset about being dropped; he has been given enough chances, and nothing positive has come from his recent performances.”
Kenya’s last appearance at the AFCON was in 2019, a milestone that injected pride and excitement into the nation. However, to return, Harambee Stars must now navigate a tough qualification path, with Zimbabwe and Namibia both presenting formidable opposition. With the recent changes, fans are cautiously optimistic, hoping that the shift in goalkeeping will bring the discipline needed to mount a successful qualification campaign.
The pressure on Firat’s side is compounded by the need for a win in both matches, a tall order under any circumstances. Zimbabwe and Namibia, both seasoned competitors, won’t make it easy for Kenya. In such a high-pressure environment, a goalkeeper with composure, quick decision-making, and reliable shot-stopping abilities is crucial, making Shikalo’s recent form a beacon of hope for Kenyan fans.
Kenya will face Zimbabwe on November 15 at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, followed by a clash with Namibia four days later. As fans await these crucial encounters, Firat’s reshuffled squad carries the weight of a nation’s hope. Matasi’s departure might be a tough pill for some, but the stakes of this qualification journey demand nothing short of excellence and consistency.
Onsika’s endorsement of Firat’s selection highlights a sense of urgency and optimism that the new lineup can seize this opportunity to bring AFCON dreams back to Kenya. As Onsika put it, “This is our chance. It’s not about individual pride but about the team and the nation. I trust that this squad has what it takes to overcome the odds and make history for Kenya.”
