Michael Olunga has fast shifted his focus to Harambee Stars’ upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers after winning the Player of the Month of October in the Qatar Stars League.
Since he returned from an injury, Olunga has regained his form and has played crucial roles for Al Duhail, who are at the top of the league. An ecstatic Olunga said that he has delivered for October and is hopeful November will be a better month for him as he balances club and national team’s duties.
“October delivered. Let November be even better. Time for Harambee Stars,” Olunga posted on his X handle.
When Al Duhail beat Al Ahli on October 19, it was Olunga who scored the goal that separated the sides. He also helped Al Duhail win a point in a game against Al Gharafa on October 27.
In their 6-2 win over Al Shamal, the former Gor Mahia striker scored and provided an assist.
Meanwhile, as Olunga exudes confidence, his head coach Engin Firat has revealed the likely threats Harambee Stars will face when they play against Zimbabwe and Namibia.
“Some people don’t know how strong these teams are. We are aware of it, but it doesn’t change the fact that we want to win.
“The group is very competitive, with some strong teams. Namibia finished second in their World Cup qualifying group, and Zimbabwe have only conceded one goal in the tournament.
“Many of Zimbabwe’s players are professionals in top leagues such as Ligue 1, Serie A, and the Premier League. They are a complete team with no key players missing,” Firat said, as quoted by a local publication.
The coach, however, is hopeful of a win, but if Harambee Stars manage to press the opponents and capitalize on mistakes.
“We understand the need to press our opponents and capitalize on their vulnerabilities. We won’t open up the game, knowing that both Zimbabwe and Namibia tend to sit deep,” he added.
Stars eye AFCON ticket
Kenya and Zimbabwe will face off on Friday, November Polokwane, before facing Namibia at the same venue on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.
Harambee Stars are third in Group J, and with four points, they must beat Zimbabwe and Namibia to have their AFCON dream remain much alive. Should Zimbabwe fail to beat Cameroon, that will be a big boost for Kenya’s hopes to grab a ticket to Morocco.
