Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, ended their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifying journey without a win.The team drew 0-0 against Namibia at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on November 19, 2024.
Both teams had no chance of qualifying before the match. This made the game less exciting for fans and players alike.Head coach Engin Firat made several changes to his usual starting lineup. He rested key players, including team captain Michael Olunga.
Photo courtesy
Anthony Akumu wore the captain’s armband for what many believe could be his final national team appearance.The first half saw Kenya create few meaningful chances. Alfred Scriven came closest with a header from Eric Ouma’s cross.
Namibia showed more attacking intent as the match progressed. Their striker Willy Stephanus forced a save from Kenyan goalkeeper Bryne Omondi.Elmo Kambindu had a chance to break the deadlock for Namibia. His header lacked power and went straight to the goalkeeper.
The Harambee Stars struggled to maintain possession throughout the match. Their midfield failed to create chances for the forwards.
Kenya’s defensive line, led by Joseph Okumu, remained solid. They prevented Namibia from scoring despite sustained pressure.The draw left Kenya third in Group J with six points from six matches. This performance falls short of fans’ expectations.
Namibia finished at the bottom of the group with just two points. Cameroon topped the group with fourteen points.
The poor campaign has raised serious questions about Kenya’s football development. Many fans are calling for major changes in the team’s setup.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Nick Mwendwa expressed disappointment with the results. He promised to review the team’s performance.
“We need to rebuild and strengthen our national team,” Mwendwa said after the match. “Our focus now shifts to the World Cup qualifiers.”
Coach Firat faced criticism for his tactical approach throughout the campaign. His future with the team remains uncertain.
Kenya’s next competitive matches will be the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. These games begin in March 2025.
The team must address several key issues before then. These include improving their attacking play and team coordination.
Youth development has become a priority for Kenyan football. The federation plans to invest more in grassroots programs.Local league performance needs improvement to strengthen the national team. Better competition domestically could help develop stronger players.
The Harambee Stars’ technical bench will analyze this campaign’s shortcomings. They aim to avoid similar disappointments in future tournaments.
Fan support remains strong despite the poor results. Many believe the team can bounce back with proper planning and preparation.
Kenya’s last AFCON appearance was in 2019. The team needs significant improvements to qualify for future tournaments.Football experts suggest focusing on long-term development rather than quick fixes. This approach could yield better results in coming years.
The national team’s performance affects Kenya’s FIFA ranking. Better results could improve future tournament seedings.