Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, is looking to solidify its chances of qualifying for the 2025 African Cup of Nations as they face continental heavyweights Cameroon today at 7pm at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé.
Harambee Stars, currently top of Group J, are winless in eight meetings against their hosts and will be hoping for better fortunes away from home.
Significant boost
The Kenyan camp is brimming with confidence following the return of several key players who missed the previous two engagements against Zimbabwe and Namibia last month.
Captain Michael Olunga is back in the squad, boosting the team’s attacking options.
Defenders Daniel Anyembe (Viborg) and Johnstone Omurwa, who missed the last fixtures due to personal reasons, are also available and could be handed starting roles by coach Firat.
Stade Reims center-back Joseph Okumu is unlikely to feature as he continues his recovery from injury, although he was an unused substitute in his French club’s 4-1 home win against Montpellier last Sunday.
Alphonce Omija, Rooney Onyango, Sylvester Owino, Eric Ouma, and Amos Nondi are other defenders available for selection.
The primary task for the defense will be to contain Cameroon’s dangerous frontline of Vincent Aboubakar, Christian Bassogog, and Brentford’s in-form striker Bryan Mbeumo.
Coach Firat may stick with his midfield pivot of Teddy Akumu and Richard Odada, while Olunga and Egypt-based John Avire are likely to lead the attack.
Firat expressed optimism, undeterred by the daunting challenge ahead, stating that Harambee Stars are well-prepared for the Indomitable Lions.
“If we want to grow, we should set bigger targets. If we aim to succeed at Afcon, then we need to be ready to face teams like Cameroon. We know how hard it will be, but I believe we are at a level where only the details will decide the outcome. I don’t think it will be easy for Cameroon, even though they have no missing players,” Firat told People Sport.
He also acknowledged the strength of the five-time African Cup of Nations champions.
“Every match has its own game plan. Against Cameroon, we will be facing a very strong and physical team. They are aggressive, and I need to prepare for two tough encounters. My game plan has to extend beyond 90 minutes. Cameroon has always had star players, but we are ready, and the boys have all the necessary information.
