As Kenya prepares for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier doubleheader against Cameroon, all eyes are on national team captain Michael Olunga. The star striker, who has been in fine form for his Qatari club, Al Duhail, is expected to play a pivotal role in Kenya’s quest for victory. The Harambee Stars face a daunting task against the five-time African champions, with the first match set for October 11 in Cameroon and the return leg three days later at Mandela Stadium in Uganda.
Former right-back James Situma has expressed confidence in Olunga’s ability to make a significant impact, believing his return could be the difference between success and failure. In this article, we explore Olunga’s current form, his importance to the team, and Kenya’s prospects in the upcoming qualifiers.
Olunga’s Form: A Scoring Machine Ready for Action
Michael Olunga returns to the national team in sensational form, having scored five goals in four league matches for Al Duhail. His goal-scoring prowess and ability to perform in crucial matches make him a vital asset for the Harambee Stars. However, Olunga’s journey back to the national team hasn’t been without challenges. He missed Kenya’s first two rounds of qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia due to an injury, leaving the team to rely on his understudies, John Avire and Jonah Ayunga.
Olunga’s absence was particularly felt during the match against Zimbabwe, where Kenya struggled to create clear-cut chances in the final third. However, the 2-1 victory over Namibia, with impressive performances from Avire and Ayunga, has given head coach Engin Firat a sense of optimism ahead of the Cameroon fixtures. Now, with Olunga back in the lineup, Firat has a potent attacking option capable of leading Kenya’s charge against the Indomitable Lions.
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Situma’s Confidence: Olunga Can Lead Kenya to Glory
James Situma, a former AFC Leopards defender and Kenyan international, is confident in Olunga’s ability to excel against Cameroon. Situma believes that Olunga’s presence as captain will be instrumental in keeping Kenya at the top of their qualifying group. “I’m confident Olunga will deliver in both matches. As the captain, he returns with the responsibility of leading the team and scoring the goals we need,” Situma remarked.
Situma also highlighted the competition Olunga faces within the national team squad as a motivating factor. Players like Adam Wilson, Alfred Scriven, and Sydney Lokale have been in good form in their respective leagues, creating a competitive environment that could push Olunga to perform even better. “The competition from his understudies will only motivate him to give his best,” Situma added.
The Importance of Olunga’s Leadership
Olunga is not just a prolific goal scorer; he is also a leader on and off the pitch. His ability to inspire his teammates and take on responsibility has been a defining trait throughout his career. As the Harambee Stars captain,his leadership will be crucial in managing the pressure of facing a strong opponent like Cameroon, especially in an away fixture.
The Harambee Stars will need Olunga’s tactical awareness and finishing skills to break down Cameroon’s defense, which has traditionally been one of the strongest in Africa. His presence will also create opportunities for other attacking players, as his ability to draw defenders opens up space for midfielders and wingers to exploit.
Kenya’s Preparation: Tough Friendlies Build Confidence
Kenya’s recent preparation for the AFCON qualifiers has included high-profile friendlies aimed at getting the players match-ready for such crucial encounters. Situma believes these friendlies have helped narrow the gap between Kenya and the likes of Cameroon. “The gap between the two teams has become much smaller. We now have the capability to compete with them and get results,” he commented.
One of Kenya’s most notable friendly matches was against Cameroon, where the Harambee Stars initially took the lead before succumbing to a 3-1 defeat. Situma, who captained Kenya and scored their lone goal in that match, is optimistic that the team has since improved and gained valuable experience. “Generations have changed, and our players are now more prepared for matches of this magnitude,” he emphasized.
With Olunga back in the squad, Kenya’s attack looks more formidable, and the team’s tactical approach is expected to be more aggressive. Head coach Engin Firat will likely rely on Olunga’s ability to hold up play, link up with midfielders, and exploit defensive gaps with his intelligent movement.
The Battle Against Cameroon: A Historic Opportunity
The doubleheader against Cameroon presents a historic opportunity for Kenya to make a statement in African football. Cameroon, with its storied history and five AFCON titles, is a formidable opponent. However, the Harambee Stars have shown resilience in recent years, and the presence of key players like Olunga gives them a fighting chance.
Engin Firat’s tactical acumen will be put to the test, as he must devise a plan that maximizes Olunga’s strengths while also addressing Cameroon’s physicality and pace. Firat’s use of Olunga’s hold-up play and positioning in set-piece situations could be crucial. With Olunga leading the line, Kenya’s chances of finding the net increase significantly, and Firat will likely build his strategy around getting the best out of his star striker.
Challenges and Opportunities for Kenya
While the return of Olunga boosts Kenya’s prospects, there are still challenges that the Harambee Stars must overcome. Playing the first match away in Cameroon means dealing with a hostile crowd and a team eager to secure points on their home turf. Kenya’s defense will need to stay compact and organized, minimizing errors that could lead to scoring opportunities for Cameroon.
Olunga’s performance will be critical, but he will also need support from his teammates, particularly from midfielders like Adam Wilson and Alfred Scriven, who have been in good form. Players like John Avire and Jonah Ayunga, who performed admirably in his absence, could be crucial impact substitutes or even start alongside him to add an extra attacking threat.
The Road Ahead: Kenya’s AFCON Dream
The doubleheader against Cameroon will be a defining moment in Kenya’s AFCON qualifying campaign. With his return, the Harambee Stars have a talisman who can lead them to victory and strengthen their position in the group. The matches will not be easy, but Situma’s confidence in Olunga and the team’s preparation offer hope for a positive result.
Sitting pretty at the top of Group J!
Leading the charge in the 2025 AFCON Qualifiers!#HarambeeStars pic.twitter.com/Q5HdpGk6gD
— Harambee Stars (@Harambee__Stars) September 10, 2024
As Kenya takes on the Indomitable Lions, fans and analysts alike will be watching Olunga’s every move. His performance could not only determine the outcome of the doubleheader but also set the tone for Kenya’s journey toward AFCON qualification. With his scoring form and leadership qualities, Olunga is undoubtedly the player to watch as Kenya looks to make history.
