Harambee Stars’ Anyembe back for Viborg after 5 months of layoff

Harambee Stars defender Daniel Anyembe made a return to action after a five-month absence, making a substitute appearance for Viborg in their commanding 3-0 victory over Randers in Denmark.

Anyembe, a crucial figure for both his club and the national team, had been sidelined since late last year due to injury.

Anyembe’s last appearance

Before his injury he had played a vital role for Harambee Stars in 2023, earning a starting position in their win against Qatar and their narrow 1-0 loss to South Sudan.

Unfortunately, Anyembe missed several matches, including the draw against Russia and the loss to Gabon, due to his injury.

His last appearance for Viborg was on October 8 in a 1-0 loss to Brøndby before he was sidelined with the injury.

Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat revealed that Anyembe played through the injury for his club due to the absence of other defenders, which eventually worsened his condition.

In Sunday’s match, Anyembe made his eagerly awaited comeback, coming on as a substitute in the 70th minute. His presence on the field proved invaluable as Viborg secured maximum points and a clean sheet.

The match itself was a testament to Viborg’s dominance, with the team displaying an aggressive press from the outset. Just two minutes into the game, they came close to opening the scoring when Zaletel set up Ibrahim Said, whose effort was denied by the crossbar.

Despite Randers gaining momentum as the game progressed, Viborg remained resolute. Mads Søndergaard, in particular, was outstanding, constantly troubling the Randers defence. His involvement led to Viborg’s first goal, as he expertly curled the ball into the net following a successful corner combination.

Viborg win

Viborg continued to assert their dominance in the second half, with Jakob Bonde extending their lead with a well-taken goal.

Although Randers tried to rally late in the game, Viborg’s defence held firm, securing a convincing 3-0 victory.