Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has announced his squad for the crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia, slated for early September. The squad features the return of key players Joseph Okumu and Erick Ouma, both of whom were sidelined due to injuries in previous matches. Their comeback is seen as a significant boost for Kenya as they aim to secure their spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament. The team will kick off their campaign against Zimbabwe on September 6, 2024, at Stade Mandela National Stadium in Uganda, before facing Namibia on September 10, 2024, in South Africa.
Key Returns: Okumu and Ouma Back in the Fold
Joseph Okumu and Erick Ouma, two of Kenya’s most reliable defenders, are back in the Harambee Stars lineup after missing the March and June international breaks due to injuries. Okumu, who plays for Reims in France, and Ouma, who is with Rakow in Poland, are expected to solidify the defense as Kenya prepares for these important qualifiers. Their return is timely, as Kenya will need their defensive prowess to counter the attacking threats posed by Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Okumu’s experience in European football and Ouma’s versatility on the left flank have been crucial for the national team in the past. Their absence was felt during the previous international breaks, and their inclusion in the squad is likely to inspire confidence among both teammates and fans. Coach Firat will be counting on these two players to lead from the back and provide the stability needed to secure positive results in the upcoming matches.
Familiar Faces and New Talents
Firat’s squad selection remains largely consistent with players who have been part of the Harambee Stars setup in recent campaigns. Among the familiar faces is Michael Olunga, the team’s top striker, who continues to be a key figure in Kenya’s attack. Olunga, currently playing for Duhail in Qatar, has been in fine form and will be expected to lead the line against Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, who has been a mainstay in the squad, retains his place alongside Bryne Omondi of Bandari and Ian Otieno of Richards Bay FC in South Africa. These goalkeepers have proven their worth in previous matches, and their experience will be vital as Kenya looks to keep clean sheets in these critical fixtures.
Midfield options also include experienced players such as Richard Odada of Dundee United in Scotland and Kenneth Muguna of Kenya Police. Firat has also recalled Eric Johana, who had been sidelined due to disciplinary issues. Johana’s creativity and vision in midfield could be crucial in breaking down the defenses of Zimbabwe and Namibia.
In addition to the seasoned players, Firat has introduced fresh talent into the squad. Notably, Gor Mahia’s Sylvester Owino has earned his first call-up to the senior national team. Owino’s impressive performances at the club level have not gone unnoticed, and his inclusion in the squad signals Firat’s intent to integrate new blood into the team. Patrick Otieno of KCB, who impressed during the COSAFA Cup in South Africa, is another new addition to the squad. These young players will be eager to make their mark on the international stage.
Tactical Approach and Expectations
As Kenya prepares for the AFCON qualifiers, Coach Engin Firat’s tactical approach will be under scrutiny. Firat, who has been at the helm of Harambee Stars since 2021, is known for his pragmatic style of play, focusing on a solid defensive structure and quick transitions. With the return of Okumu and Ouma, Firat will have the option to deploy a more balanced formation, ensuring that Kenya remains solid at the back while still posing a threat going forward.
Firat is expected to maintain his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, with Olunga spearheading the attack. The midfield will likely feature a combination of defensive and creative players, with Richard Odada and Kenneth Muguna providing the defensive cover, while Eric Johana and Duke Abuya could be tasked with creating chances from the middle of the park. The wide areas will be crucial, with Ouma’s overlapping runs from the left and Victor Omune’s pace on the right providing width and penetration.
The upcoming matches against Zimbabwe and Namibia are crucial for Kenya’s chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON. Zimbabwe, a team with a mix of domestic and foreign-based players, will present a tough challenge, especially with the match being played at a neutral venue in Uganda. Namibia, on the other hand, will be a familiar opponent, having faced Kenya in previous qualifiers. Firat will be aware of the need to secure maximum points, especially in the home fixture against Zimbabwe, to build momentum heading into the away game against Namibia.
The Road Ahead
Harambee Stars have a challenging task ahead as they aim to qualify for the 2025 AFCON. With the return of key players like Okumu and Ouma, the team is well-equipped to face the challenges posed by Zimbabwe and Namibia. The blend of experienced players and fresh talent in the squad gives Coach Firat a range of options to choose from as he devises his game plan for these crucial matches.
As the team heads into the final preparations for the qualifiers, there is a sense of optimism among fans and players alike. The upcoming matches will not only test Kenya’s ability to compete at the highest level but also provide an opportunity to assess the progress made under Firat’s guidance. A strong showing in these qualifiers could set the tone for a successful campaign, bringing Harambee Stars one step closer to securing their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
With the stakes high and the team well-prepared, all eyes will be on Harambee Stars as they embark on this important journey. The return of key players, the integration of new talent, and the strategic approach of Coach Firat will be critical factors in determining Kenya’s success in the upcoming AFCON qualifiers. The nation will be hoping for positive results as Harambee Stars strive to make their mark on the continental stage once again.
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