Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars, face a crucial test this afternoon as they take on Cameroon in a pivotal AFCON 2025 qualifier at the Mandela Stadium in Namboole, Uganda. After suffering a crushing 4-1 defeat in the first leg in Yaoundé, Kenya is eager to bounce back and secure valuable points to keep their qualification hopes alive. With coach Engin Firat expected to make several tactical adjustments, particularly in defense and attack, the Stars are determined to redeem themselves.
One of the biggest questions heading into the match is whether key striker Michael Olunga will be fit to play. His absence would force Firat to explore other attacking options, which could significantly impact Kenya’s chances of getting a result.
Olunga’s Uncertainty: Who Will Step Up?
Michael Olunga, Kenya’s talisman and top scorer, is a doubt for this crucial encounter due to injury concerns. Olunga’s absence would be a huge blow to the Harambee Stars, as his ability to hold up play, finish chances, and lead the line has been vital to the team’s attack. In the first leg, Olunga was one of the few bright spots, creating chances and constantly troubling Cameroon’s defense. However, if he fails to pass a late fitness test, coach Firat will need to find a capable replacement.
The two most likely candidates to replace Olunga are Jonah Ayunga and John Avire. Ayunga, a powerful forward with experience playing in the Scottish Premiership, could offer a physical presence upfront. He has the ability to play with his back to goal, hold off defenders, and bring other players into the game, making him a suitable option in Olunga’s absence.
John Avire is another option. Known for his pace and movement, Avire could stretch the Cameroon defense and provide an outlet on the counterattack. While he lacks Olunga’s goal-scoring prowess, his energy and work rate could be valuable in disrupting Cameroon’s backline.
The decision of who starts in Olunga’s place will be key to Firat’s tactical approach. If the coach opts for Ayunga, the team may look to play more direct, using long balls and crosses to exploit Ayunga’s aerial ability. On the other hand, Avire’s inclusion could see Kenya adopt a more counter-attacking style, relying on quick transitions and exploiting spaces behind Cameroon’s defense.
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Firat’s Tactical Game Plan
Coach Engin Firat has hinted at making several changes to the starting lineup, especially in defense and attack. The first leg exposed Kenya’s defensive vulnerabilities, with individual errors leading to three of Cameroon’s four goals. Firat will need to tighten up the defense if the Harambee Stars are to have any chance of keeping Cameroon at bay.
Goalkeeper: A Change Between the Posts
One of the key changes expected is in goal. Bryne Omondi, the Bandari FC shot-stopper, is likely to replace Patrick Matasi, who had a difficult outing in Yaoundé. Matasi’s mistakes were costly, and Firat will be looking for a more assured performance from Omondi, who has impressed in recent matches against Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Omondi’s shot-stopping ability and composure will be crucial in dealing with Cameroon’s attack, which is known for its physicality and aerial threat. Firat will be counting on Omondi to provide a solid foundation from the back.
Defensive Reinforcements
Kenya’s defense struggled in the first leg, and Firat is expected to make changes to shore up the backline. Daniel Anyembe and Eric Ouma are expected to retain their places as fullbacks after playing the full 90 minutes in Yaoundé. Both players offer defensive solidity as well as the ability to push forward and support the attack.
In central defense, Joseph Okumu and Johnstone Omurwa are likely to start. Okumu, who only played the second half in the first leg due to fitness concerns, is expected to feature from the start this time around. Omurwa, who missed the first leg through injury, should return to partner Okumu in what will be a crucial pairing for Kenya. Their task will be to keep Cameroon’s dangerous forwards, including Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, in check.
Battle ready ⚔️#HarambeeStars pic.twitter.com/UBWwc2I5c0
— Harambee Stars (@Harambee__Stars) October 14, 2024
Midfield Stability
In midfield, Firat is expected to stick with Richard Odada and Teddy Akumu in a double pivot. Odada and Akumu will be tasked with breaking up Cameroon’s attacks and providing a shield in front of the defense. Their ability to win the ball and distribute it effectively will be key to controlling the tempo of the game.
Duke Abuya, who started in Cameroon, is likely to continue in a more advanced midfield role. Abuya will be expected to link up play between the midfield and attack, providing creativity and support for the forwards. His movement and vision will be crucial in creating opportunities for Kenya, especially if they adopt a more counter-attacking approach.
Attacking Options: Will Olunga Play?
In attack, the biggest question is whether Michael Olunga will be fit to start. If he passes a late fitness test, Olunga will undoubtedly lead the line, with Timothy Ouma and Ronney Onyango flanking him on either side. Ouma, who is expected to play on the left, will have to adapt to a role that is somewhat unfamiliar to him, but his work rate and technical ability could make him a key player in Kenya’s attacking transitions.
If Olunga is unavailable, Jonah Ayunga or John Avire will step in as the central striker. Firat’s choice between the two will depend on the tactical approach he wants to take. Ayunga’s physical presence and ability to hold up the ball could be useful in a more direct style, while Avire’s pace and mobility would suit a counter-attacking strategy.
A Must-Win for Kenya
Kenya’s matchup against Cameroon is a must-win if they hope to stay in contention for AFCON 2025 qualification. With several changes expected in the lineup and a tactical game plan that will likely focus on defensive solidity and counter-attacking, coach Engin Firat will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in the Cameroon defense. Whether or not Michael Olunga is fit to play will have a significant impact on Kenya’s chances, but with capable replacements in Jonah Ayunga and John Avire, the Harambee Stars still have options in attack.
As Kenya seeks redemption after their heavy defeat in the first leg, all eyes will be on how Firat’s tactical adjustments and player choices influence the outcome of this crucial qualifier
