Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga is confident that the national team has enough talent to help compete on bigger stages.

Kenya missed an opportunity to feature in the next Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Morocco in 2025. Harambee Stars also have a slim chance of making it to the 2026 World Cup, but looking into the team, the Al Duhail SC striker has confidence in their ability.

“We have what it takes. We have a very good squad coming up, but a lot of preparation is needed. The success we achieve is a result of work done behind the scenes. I believe we have the talent, potential, and capability to make these bigger stages,” Olunga said during an interview with a local TV station.

Talent development

The former Gor Mahia striker also commented on the Talanta Sports City, a new stadium that is under construction in Nairobi. However, he says that although those infrastructures are good, Kenya needs a proper way of identifying and nurturing talent.

“It will serve the purpose of hosting the 2027 AFCON alongside Kasarani, but it won’t relieve the overall burden.

“We have a lot of talent in Kenya that needs proper infrastructure. The most important thing is to start from the grassroots level – school games, proper coaching, and pathways from junior teams to senior teams to help players gain international exposure,” he said.

With Kenya looking to co-host both the delayed 2024 CHAN and AFCON finals in 2027, Olunga has stressed the importance of fans during home games.

“It makes a difference. The Swahili say Mcheza Kwao Hutuzwa. We really need the 12th man.

“When the stadium is full, it fills you with loads of energy to play. Even in situations where you’d normally avoid sprinting, you’d find yourself doing it. The fans bring that extra motivation,” he said.