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Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga is optimistic that the team can pick a positive ahead of their crucial World Cup Qualifier match against Burundi on Friday, June 7, 2024.

The match, set to kick off at 4:00 PM Kenyan time at Bingu Stadium in Lilongwe, Malawi, sees Kenya aiming to close the gap on group leaders Ivory Coast.

Harambee Stars skipper upbeat

Olunga, who has had an impressive season despite some setbacks, is set to lead the Kenyan side. He is aware of the test they will face but he remains upbeat that they can pull a result from the match.

“It won’t be an easy game. If you look at Burundi’s previous matches, they lost 3-2 and won 2-1, showing they are a strong team with good players. However, we are hopeful that we will play well, and each player will give their best to achieve good results,” Olunga told the media in Lilongwe.

The star striker has been in fine form, scoring a total of 28 goals for both club and country in the 2023/24 season, despite a hamstring injury that sidelined him temporarily.

His performance places him fifth among the top African strikers for the season, a position that shows his importance to the Harambee Stars’ campaign.

Joining Olunga in the squad are key players such as Daniel Anyembe and Richard Odada, each bringing their own strengths to the team.

Anyembe has become a reliable presence in Kenya’s defense since his debut in 2023 and is expected to make a impact in his first World Cup qualifier.

Odada, who recently concluded a successful loan spell with Denmark’s AaB, will also be looking to carry his form into the qualifiers.

Harambee Stars full squad

Goalkeepers: Ian Otieno, Byrne Omondi, Patrick Matasi

Defenders: Johnstone Omurwa, Collins Sichenje, Zak Vyner, Alphonce Omija, Abud Omar, Daniel Anyembe, Tobias Knost, Baron Ochieng

Midfielders: John Ochieng, Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, Chrispine Erambo, Timothy Ouma, Duke Abuya, Kenneth Muguna, Austin Odhiambo, Ronney Onyango, Clifton Miheso

Forwards: John Avire, Benson Omalla, Michael Olunga

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