The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers are in full swing, and all eyes are on the highly anticipated clash between Harambee Stars and Zimbabwe. Both teams are eager to make a mark in the qualifiers, with Kenya aiming for a comeback on the continental stage after missing the last two editions. Fans who can’t attend the match in person will be glad to know that the game will be broadcast live on television. Here’s a comprehensive guide on where to watch, match details, team news, and betting predictions from Jambobet.
Where to Watch the Kenya vs. Zimbabwe AFCON Qualifier Live
For Kenyan football fans, missing this crucial AFCON qualifier is not an option. Luckily, the country’s oldest TV station, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), has confirmed that it will broadcast the match live. KBC Channel One will cover the game in its entirety, enabling fans across Kenya to support the Harambee Stars from home.
The match is scheduled to take place on Friday at Namboole Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, with kick-off at 4 PM East African Time (EAT). This is a golden opportunity for fans to catch all the action, particularly given the match’s importance in Kenya’s quest to return to the AFCON tournament after missing out on the last two editions.
Betting Predictions from Jambobet
As the match approaches, many fans and bettors are turning to predictions and betting odds to gauge the possible outcomes. According to Jambobet, this is expected to be a tightly contested match, with both teams having a strong chance to secure a result. However, here are some key predictions and odds to consider:
Match Winner Prediction:
- Kenya Win: 2.10
- Draw: 3.00
- Zimbabwe Win: 3.25
Jambobet slightly favors Kenya to win the match, primarily due to their recent form and the experience of key players like Michael Olunga. However, Zimbabwe is not far behind, and the odds suggest that a draw is also a likely outcome.
Goal Scoring Possibility:
- Both Teams to Score (Yes): 1.85
- Both Teams to Score (No): 2.00
Given the attacking talent on both sides, there’s a strong possibility that both teams will find the back of the net. Kenya’s Michael Olunga and Zimbabwe’s leading forwards are expected to be key players in this regard.
Over/Under 2.5 Goals:
- Over 2.5 Goals: 2.25
- Under 2.5 Goals: 1.65
Jambobet predicts that this match could see a few goals but not necessarily a high-scoring affair. The odds favor under 2.5 goals, indicating a more cautious approach from both teams, especially considering what’s at stake.
Why the Match Is Being Played in Uganda
One of the key aspects of this match is its location. The Kenya vs. Zimbabwe game will take place at Namboole Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, rather than on Kenyan soil. This decision was made due to the absence of a CAF-certified stadium in Kenya that meets the standards required for hosting AFCON or World Cup qualifiers. Consequently, Kenya has had to play their “home” matches in neighboring Uganda.
The Harambee Stars arrived in Uganda on Monday and have since held their first training session. Despite the logistical challenges, the team remains focused and determined to secure a positive result against Zimbabwe.
Kenya’s Squad and Key Players to Watch
Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has selected a strong squad for this important encounter, blending experienced players with young talent eager to make an impact on the continental stage. Here’s a look at the squad that will represent Kenya in Uganda:
Goalkeepers: Levis Opiyo, Patrick Matasi, Byrne Omondi
Defenders: Sharrif Majabe, Joseph Okumu, Johnstone Omurwa, Amos Nondi, Abud Omar, Eric Ouma, Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija
Midfielders: Chris Erambo, Richard Odada, Anthony Akumu, Kenneth Muguna, Eric Johanna, Ronney Onyango, Austine Odhiambo, Duke Abuya, Timothy Ouma
Forwards: John Avire, Michael Olunga, Jonah Ayunga, Benson Omalla, Victor Omune
Michael Olunga, the team captain and star striker, stands out as a key player to watch. His leadership and goal-scoring ability will be crucial to Kenya’s success in this match. Joseph Okumu, a reliable presence in defense, will also play an important role in containing Zimbabwe’s attacking threats.
Zimbabwe’s Challenge: A Tough Opponent
Zimbabwe, known as the Warriors, presents a formidable challenge for Kenya. The team has a rich history in African football and has been a regular participant in AFCON tournaments. Known for their physical and disciplined style of play, Zimbabwe will be looking to assert their dominance and secure a win that could boost their qualification chances.
Kenya’s coach, Engin Firat, is well aware of the challenge ahead. “I am a realistic person… it would be a dream start (a win against Zimbabwe), but we have to respect the opponent. I know they are strong, so we will do our best,” Firat stated in his pre-match briefing.
Kenya’s Path to AFCON 2025: Aiming for a Comeback
The 2025 AFCON qualifiers represent a crucial juncture for Kenya’s national team. After missing out on the last two editions, the Harambee Stars are determined to return to the continental competition. Their last appearance was in 2019 in Cairo, Egypt, where they put up a commendable performance but failed to progress beyond the group stage.
Coach Engin Firat has emphasized the importance of mental readiness and resilience within the squad. “All of the teams have their own weaknesses… all of them struggle, honestly, when they are playing against teams that sit so deep. So until the last match, the group will remain open, and that’s why it is important for us to be mentally ready,” he added.
Firat’s strategy will likely revolve around a solid defense, quick transitions, and capitalizing on set-piece opportunities. With the group stages being highly competitive, every point matters, and a win against Zimbabwe would significantly boost Kenya’s chances of advancing to the AFCON 2025 tournament.
What to Expect from the Match
The Kenya vs. Zimbabwe match is shaping up to be an intense and closely contested affair. Both teams are eager to prove themselves and take an early advantage in the qualifiers. For Kenya, the focus will be on a disciplined defensive performance while taking advantage of counter-attacks and set pieces. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, may adopt a more aggressive approach, looking to exploit any weaknesses in Kenya’s defense.
Fans can expect a high-stakes match filled with action and drama. The outcome of this game could set the tone for the remainder of the qualification campaign, making it a must-watch encounter for both Kenyan and Zimbabwean supporters.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss the Action
The 2025 AFCON qualifier between Kenya and Zimbabwe is more than just a football match—it’s a crucial opportunity for the Harambee Stars to take a significant step toward their goal of returning to the continental stage. With KBC Channel One broadcasting the match live, fans can follow every moment of the action as it unfolds in Kampala.
As both teams prepare for battle, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter that could have major implications for the AFCON 2025 qualification race. Be sure to tune in at 4 PM East African Time to catch all the excitement and cheer on the Harambee Stars as they aim for victory.
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