South Sudan defeat Harambee Stars at home

Harambee Stars suffered a 1-0 loss to South Sudan in an International friendly match played at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani.

This game followed their recent victory over Qatar, where they secured a 2-1 win at the Al Janoub Stadium on September 7, 2023, thanks to goals from Joseph Okumu and Amos Nondi.

Tables turn for Harambee Stars

However, in the South Sudan match, the tables turned as Harambee Stars conceded an early goal just one minute into the game.

Former Gor Mahia player and newly signed Kenya Police FC striker, Tito Okello, found the net for South Sudan after taking advantage of an error in Kenya’s defense.

South Sudan defended resolutely, utilizing their height advantage to deny Kenya the equalizer.

In the second half, Kenya made substitutions, with Nondi replacing the injured Elvis Rupia, and Duke Abuya and Clarke Oduor coming on for Kenneth Muguna and Masoud Juma, respectively.

Despite Kenya’s continued efforts to find an equalizing goal, they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities.

Harambee Stars late chances

Captain Michael Olunga, in particular, missed a chance to score when he was played through with a beautiful pass but couldn’t get the better of the oncoming South Sudan goalkeeper in the 63rd minute.

Mike Shummah couldn’t get on Abuya’s low shot in the 83rd. Towards the end of the match, Nondi delivered a delightful cross into the box, but Olunga’s header couldn’t find the target.

Following this defeat, Harambee Stars will shift their focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. They have been placed in Group F alongside Seychelles, Burundi, Gambia, Gabon, and Côte d’Ivoire.

The first leg of these qualifiers is scheduled to be played between November 13 and November 21, 2023.

The group winners will secure direct qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Furthermore, the four best runners-up from the groups will advance to the CAF Play-Off tournament, where the ultimate winner will earn a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This marks the return of the national team to CAF and FIFA competitions after a year-long FIFA suspension.